The Philippines has suspended on-campus classes in all public schools for two days due to extreme heat.
According to TRT World, the jeepney (public transport) drivers have also called for a nationwide strike.
The education department, on Sunday, April 28, announced, “In view of the latest heat index forecast... and the announcement of a nationwide transport strike, all public schools nationwide shall implement asynchronous classes/distance learning on April 29 and 30, 2024.”
The months from March to May are usually the hottest and driest in the archipelago nations. However, the conditions this year have worsened due to Al Nino, a weather phenomenon that emerges from variations in winds and sea surface temperatures.
Moreover, Ana Solis, chief climatologist at the state weather forecaster, told AFP that there is are 50% chance that the heat will intensify in the coming days.
The climatologist suggested drinking plenty of water, using umbrellas or hats and avoiding going out in extreme heat.
The state weather forecaster also warned that the heat index reached the danger level of 42 C or higher in at least 30 cities and municipalities.
