Several Philippine Schools Suspend Classes as Heat Reach Danger Levels

Hundreds of schools across the Philippines, with a significant number located in Manila, suspended in-person classes on Tuesday due to dangerously high temperatures, according to education authorities.

The heat index in Manila, which gauges how hot it feels factoring in humidity, was projected to hit the “danger” level of 42°C on Tuesday and 43°C on Wednesday. Similar conditions were anticipated in 12 other regions of the country, as reported by the National Weather Service.

Despite an actual forecast of 34°C, primary and secondary schools in Quezon, Manila’s most populous area, were mandated to close, while schools elsewhere were granted the option by local officials to transition to remote learning. In Manila, some schools adjusted their schedules to avoid the peak heat hours.

A heat index ranging from 42-51°C can lead to heat cramps and exhaustion, with a risk of heat stroke with prolonged exposure, according to weather advisories. Heat-related illnesses are also possible at temperatures between 33-41°C.

Additionally, in various parts of the southern island of Mindanao, local authorities suspended in-person classes or shortened school hours over a two-week period, affecting numerous schools in Cotabato, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat provinces, as well as Cotabato City, General Santos, and Koronadal, according to regional education department spokeswoman Rea Halique.

Cotabato City recorded the highest heat index in Mindanao, reaching 42°C on both Monday and Tuesday, as reported by the state weather service.

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