PAGASA explains weather condition

The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical Astronomical Services Association yesterday assured the public that the weather in Cebu is just normal.

Alice Canasa of PAGASA said despite the announcement of the end of the summer season, it is still normal to have hot days especially because there is a system in the weather right now that could cause rain.

After the weather bureau’s announcement of the setting in of the wet season, a lot has questioned about the continuous scorching heat of the sun especially in the past few days, creating insinuations that it could be a sign of a heat wave.

But Canasa said that “we may be experiencing more rainshowers or cloudy days in the next few days since a system has been formed and seen in the area.”

Yesterday, she said that a 33 degrees Celsius temperature was recorded in Cebu which was still normal. Manila reported a 36 degrees Celcius temperature yesterday that was said to be the hottest recorded temperature in the area for this year.

Even if there is no reported case of heat wave, the Department of Health Region-7 is advising the public, especially the students, who will be going to schools next week to be careful and take precautionary measures.

Dr. Cora Lou Kintanar of DOH-7 said that due to the extremity of the weather temperatures, it is best to take extra steps like making sure not to be exposed under the sun for too long especially in times when the sun is fully risen at between 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Kintanar said cough and colds are commonly caused by the changing temperature, and allergies may also be experienced by those who are sensitive to the changing weather.

She said heat stroke and dehydration are caused by over exposure to the sun, so it is important to always drink water.

Kintanar said that students, children most especially, should be reminded not to play too much under the heat of the sun to prevent the said complications.

 According to her, it is also during this time when the temperature is changing that dengue becomes a problem.

She said that since dengue is endemic here, meaning mosquito carrying the virus is known and present here, it is very important to be careful.

Kintanar said that dengue cases are expected to rise again this rainy season. — AJ de la Torre/WAB (THE FREEMAN)