Politics · Philippines Bureau
Negros Occidental suspends classes in 17 areas amid dangerous heat
Multiple local government units in Negros Occidental have halted face-to-face classes Wednesday as the region braces for dangerously high temperatures. The state weather bureau has forecast a heat index reaching 42 degrees Celsius across several municipalities.
LSN Philippines ·
BACOLOD CITY — Seventeen areas across Negros Occidental suspended in-person classes on Wednesday following warnings of extreme heat from the state weather bureau. Local government units issued the directives after forecasts indicated heat indices would climb to 42 degrees Celsius, a level classified as "dangerous" by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
The decision to halt face-to-face instruction affects multiple municipalities and cities throughout the province. Authorities cited health and safety concerns for students and school personnel, noting that prolonged exposure to such elevated temperatures poses significant risks to public welfare.
As of Tuesday evening, La Carlota City in Negros Occidental had already recorded concerning heat index measurements, prompting officials to act preemptively. The suspension underscores the increasing impact of extreme weather conditions on daily operations across the region.
Local government units advised residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses, including staying hydrated, seeking shade during peak afternoon hours, and limiting outdoor activities. The weather bureau is expected to provide updated forecasts as conditions develop.