Temperature reaches 50°C in Philippines

Heat indices have hit 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) in various regions in the Philippines on Friday.

According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), this year’s highest heat index of 50°C scorched Legazpi City, Albay at 11:00 a.m.

Sweltering heat in the Philippines can curb farm production, disrupt water and power and weigh on businesses.

It also takes a toll on students. Thousands of schools have suspended classes due to the heat, affecting more than 3.6 million students, education ministry data shows.

The heat burns my skin, it’s not like the usual (summer) heat that is tolerable,” said senior high school student Kirt Mahusay, 23, whose education was halted during COVID-19.