List of Places with Class Suspensions for April and May 2024
The heat index is a measure that tells us how hot it really feels when the humidity is combined with the actual air temperature. This is different from the temperature that a thermometer shows because it considers how the moisture in the air makes the heat feel more intense to our bodies.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) explains that a heat index between 33 to 41 degrees Celsius requires extreme caution. This range can make outdoor activities uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. When the heat index goes above 42 degrees Celsius, it enters the “Danger” and “Extreme Danger” categories, which are even more serious. At these levels, the risks include heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke, especially if you keep doing strenuous activities.
Due to the severe heat, some changes have been made to protect the health of students and school staff. For instance, alternate uniforms are now allowed for teaching and non-teaching personnel to help them stay cool. Additionally, when the heat index reaches these dangerous levels, it can lead to the suspension of face-to-face classes to ensure everyone’s safety.
Several areas in the Philippines have already taken action due to the extreme heat:
- Cebu Province has suspended classes at all educational levels until further notice.
- Municipality of Minglanilla and Manaoag have also suspended classes without specifying an end date.
- Sarangani Province has suspended classes for all levels until April 19, 2024.
- In Manila City, afternoon classes in public schools are suspended until May 28.
- The Polytechnic University of the Philippines across all campuses has paused classes until April 30, partly due to the hot weather and also because of transport strikes.
These measures are essential to protect students and staff from the health risks posed by the high heat index levels, and to ensure that the educational environment remains safe and conducive to learning despite the challenging weather conditions.
