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The state weather bureau, PAGASA, hasn’t even declared the official start of summer yet, but temperatures are already soaring—and not in a good way. Across the country, heat indexes have hit danger levels, forcing some cities to suspend face-to-face classes to keep students safe from the scorching heat.

Blazing Temperatures Across the Country

Over the weekend, Isabela recorded a heat index of 42°C, but things only got worse as the week started. On Monday, Muñoz, Nueva Ecija hit 45°C, while Science Garden in Quezon City and Clark Airport in Pampanga both sizzled at 46°C. And brace yourself—Nueva Ecija is expected to experience a brutal 49°C heat index on Tuesday.

Other areas feeling the heat include:
• Coron, Palawan – 45°C (Feb. 26)
• San Jose, Occidental Mindoro – Highest actual temperature of 36.2°C (Sunday)
• Bataan & Olongapo – 44°C and 43°C expected on Tuesday

Class Suspensions Due to Extreme Heat

With temperatures reaching dangerous levels, some local governments aren’t taking any chances. Valenzuela, Caloocan, Malabon, and Las Piñas have all suspended face-to-face classes on Monday.

Here’s the breakdown:
• Caloocan: Kinder to Senior High School (public schools only) will shift to blended learning.
• Malabon and Las Piñas: All levels (public and private) suspended.
• Valenzuela: Kinder to Senior High School (public and private) suspended.

The City of Manila and Marikina City have also announced class suspensions for Monday afternoon due to the heat index.
• Manila: Afternoon classes in all levels (public and private) are suspended.
• Marikina: Morning session will have an early dismissal at 11 a.m., while afternoon classes are fully suspended.

DOH Issues Heat Stroke Warning

With the heat index expected to reach as high as 46°C in Metro Manila, the Department of Health (DOH) is urging everyone to stay cautious. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can cause heat cramps, exhaustion, dizziness, nausea, and even heat stroke—a life-threatening condition that can lead to seizures or loss of consciousness.

What to do if someone is experiencing heat-related illness:

Move them to a cool, well-ventilated place.
Apply cold compress on the head, neck, and body.
Encourage slow, frequent sips of cold water (if conscious).
Call emergency services or take them to the hospital if symptoms worsen.

What’s Next? More Heat and Some Rain

While most of the country will remain hot, PAGASA says that Bicol Region, Eastern Visayas, Caraga, and Davao Oriental might get some relief with cloudy skies, scattered rains, and thunderstorms due to easterlies.

For now, if you’re in Metro Manila and other areas facing dangerous heat levels, it’s best to stay indoors, stay hydrated, and avoid prolonged sun exposure. Summer may not be official yet, but this heatwave says otherwise. Stay safe out there.