Heat wave

Schools in parts of the Philippines have suspended in-person lessons as extreme temperatures push the heat index to 42°C, leaving residents struggling with intense heat and limited water supplies.
The disruption has affected areas of Negros Occidental province, including La Carlota City, where schools have stopped face-to-face classes for two days.
Footage filmed on Friday shows empty school buildings, residents using umbrellas to protect themselves from the sun and people resting under trees to escape the heat. Meanwhile, farmers continue working in sugarcane fields near Mount Kanlaon despite the high temperatures.
Teacher Mark Anthony Sombilona said the conditions had significantly disrupted education in the city.
“The extreme heat has really had a major impact here in La Carlota when it comes to education, classes have been suspended for two days now because of the extreme heat,” he said.

Heat Index Reaches Danger Level
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) recorded a heat index of 42°C in La Carlota on Thursday.
The reading falls under the agency’s ‘danger’ category, which indicates an increased risk of heat-related illnesses.
According to PAGASA, temperatures at this level can cause heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Prolonged exposure may also lead to heat stroke.
Residents have reported headaches, dry skin and difficulties accessing sufficient water as the hot weather continues.
Local resident Cholly Liper said the conditions were affecting people’s health and everyday routines.
“Of course, it causes high blood pressure and headaches – severe headaches! Your skin feels so dry, and the water supply here in our area is currently very weak,” she said while fanning herself.
Edwin Sevilla, a 63-year-old government employee, also described how people were changing their daily routines to avoid the strongest sunlight.
“Look at the sun – it’s way too hot – people are taking shelter under the trees and avoiding going out,” he said.
Sevilla added that the heat becomes particularly difficult around midday and can remain intense until late afternoon, forcing pedestrians to look for shade while walking along roads.

El Niño Raises Drought Concerns
The extreme temperatures come as a very strong El Niño weather phenomenon affects the Philippines.
PAGASA warned on Wednesday that the weather pattern could reach its peak towards the end of 2026 and continue into the first half of 2027.
The weather agency has also forecast below-normal rainfall and warmer-than-average temperatures across large parts of the country.
These conditions have raised concerns about worsening drought and water shortages, particularly in communities already experiencing reduced water supplies.
Agricultural workers in Negros Occidental are also continuing their work in extensive sugarcane fields despite limited relief from the scorching conditions.
With El Niño expected to persist into next year, schools, residents and agricultural communities could continue facing challenges from rising temperatures and reduced rainfall.
Article by Viory