Classes Suspended in Philippines as Extreme Heat Scorches South and Southeast Asia

Classes were suspended across the Philippines due to extreme heat. The heat index reached dangerous levels of 42°C (108°F) or higher in at least 30 cities and municipalities, prompting the Philippine Department of Education to suspend in-person classes at nearly 6,700 schools.

The extreme heat was exacerbated by the El Niño weather phenomenon, with temperatures in the country typically being the hottest and driest during March, April, and May. The state weather forecaster warned that the heat could intensify further in the coming days.

Authorities urged people to limit time spent outdoors, drink plenty of water, and use umbrellas and hats for protection. "We are advising the public to take precautionary measures to avoid heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses," said Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire.

Why this matters: The severe heatwave in the Philippines is part of a broader trend of rising global temperatures and more frequent climate-related disasters in Asia. The situation highlights the urgent need for measures to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events on vulnerable populations and critical infrastructure.

The heatwave was part of a broader trend of extreme heat scorching parts of South and Southeast Asia. In Bangladesh, thousands gathered in Dhaka to pray for rain as the heatwave forced authorities to shut schools around the country. The Indian Meteorological Department also warned of severe heatwave conditions in several eastern and southern states over the next five days.

Thai authorities in Bangkok issued an extreme heat warning and urged people to stay indoors for their safety, as temperatures were forecast to hit 39°C (102°F) in the capital, with the heat index rising above 52°C (126°F).

The high temperatures were recorded just a day after the United Nations said Asia was the region that suffered the most disasters from climate and weather hazards in 2023, with floods and storms being the chief causes of casualties and economic losses. The World Meteorological Organization's report underscored the alarming pace of warming in Asia, with temperatures rising nearly two degrees Celsius above the long-term average.

Key Takeaways

• Schools across the Philippines suspended classes due to extreme heat of 42°C or higher.
• The heatwave was exacerbated by El Niño, with temperatures typically hottest in March-May.
• Authorities urged public to limit outdoor time, stay hydrated, and use protection against heat.
• The heatwave is part of a broader trend of rising global temperatures in Asia.
• UN report highlighted Asia as the region most affected by climate and weather disasters in 2023.