𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦: "Extreme heat suspends schools in Metro Manila; expects heat to intensify — PAGASA" by Justine Louis De Guia

Published by: John Kurt Gabriel Reyes

Date Published: March 4, 2025

Time Published: 8:20 PM

'Peak dry season to start during end-March to April' 

MUNTINLUPA, Philippines — Several municipalities in Metro Manila suspended classes yesterday, March 3, due to unbearable classroom conditions caused by the scorching heat, which is expected to intensify in the coming days.

Amid rising concerns about student safety, temperatures classified as "danger" pose a crucial risk of heat-related illnesses, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warns.

According to the Department of Education (DepEd), face-to-face classes were suspended in Malabon, Parañaque, Las Piñas and Pasay. Students in Marikina were sent home early in the morning.

Meanwhile, Navotas continued on-site classes in public and private schools.

On the other hand, Valenzuela and Caloocan shifted to asynchronous or blended learning, while San Juan introduced a new class schedule today to safeguard students from extreme temperatures.

Other regions in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao have not yet announced any class suspensions caused by extreme heat.

Metro Manila and several other areas are expected to experience a "danger" level heat index ranging from 42 to 51 degrees Celsius, with the peak of the dry season forecasted from the end of March to April.

“We are in the transition period going to the dry season or summer. By mid-March, we expect a break of amihan or northeast monsoon,” weather specialist Ana Clauren-Jorda stated in an interview.

Given these conditions, extended exposure to extreme heat makes it difficult for the body to regulate its temperature, increasing the risk of heat cramps and heat stroke, PAGASA announced.

Furthermore, dehydration from excessive sweating can also cause result in fatigue, confusion, and even potential kidney damage.

REFERENCES: 

Cariaso, B. (2025, March 4). Peak of dry season to start end of March – PAGASA. MSN. https://www.msn.com/.../peak-of-dry-season-to.../ar-AA1A9Szm

Laqui, I. (2025, March 3). 3 areas under ‘danger’ heat index — PAGASA. Philstar.com. https://www.philstar.com/.../3-areas-under-danger-heat...

Walang Pasok: Class suspensions for March 3 due to heat index. (2025, March 3). Philstar.com. https://www.philstar.com/.../walang-pasok-class...