TACLOBAN CITY – Calbayog City and the municipality of Matuguinao in Samar were gripped by punishing heat on Saturday, as temperatures soared to dangerous levels amid warnings of intensifying dry conditions linked to the developing El Niño.
The state weather bureau earlier warned the heat index in the two localities could reach as high as 43°C.
The already oppressive natural conditions were made worse by an 18-hour power interruption scheduled by the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), leaving many residents without relief from electric fans or air-conditioning during the hottest hours of the day.
An unexpected late afternoon downpour offered little comfort, as it only lasted for a few minutes.
Social media posts showed residents seeking refuge wherever they could—some heading to nearby resorts and farms, while others booked hotel rooms just to escape the heat.
The extreme conditions come as the state weather bureau raised the El Niño alert.
The agency warned that this could bring drier-than-usual conditions across parts of the country, increasing the risk of droughts and prolonged dry spells in the coming months.
In the town of Matuguinao, authorities warned of a high risk for heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and potentially heat stroke with prolonged exposure or physical activity outdoors.
Residents were also urged to take precautions, including drinking plenty of water even without feeling thirsty, avoiding direct sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and wearing light, loose-fitting clothing.
Authorities emphasized the importance of staying hydrated and remaining in shaded or cool areas, especially for vulnerable groups such as children, senior citizens, and even pets./gsg
