Heatwave Forces Manila School Closures: Bangkok Post

Felix Dubois

5 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

4.6

Share

The Severity of the Manila Heatwave

The recent heatwave in Manila has been exceptionally severe, characterized by prolonged periods of extremely high temperatures and oppressive humidity. The intensity and duration of this heatwave have surpassed previous years, posing significant risks to the population.

• Temperature Data: The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported temperatures consistently exceeding 35°C (95°F) for several consecutive days, with some areas reaching as high as 38°C (100°F). These figures represent a significant departure from typical temperatures for this time of year.
• Record-Breaking Temperatures: While official records are still being analyzed, anecdotal evidence and news reports suggest that some areas in Manila may have experienced record-breaking temperatures during this heatwave.
• Heat Index: The heat index, which combines temperature and humidity to reflect the perceived air temperature, reached dangerously high levels, making outdoor activities extremely hazardous. This exacerbates the risks associated with heat-related illnesses. The combination of high temperature and humidity created a significantly higher perceived temperature, increasing the risk of heatstroke and dehydration.

Impact on Manila Schools and Students

The extreme heat forced the closure of numerous schools across Manila, disrupting the education of thousands of students. This decision was made to prioritize the health and safety of students and staff.

• Schools Affected: While the exact number is still being compiled, reports indicate that dozens of schools across various districts in Manila were affected by the closures. This includes both public and private schools.
• Reasons for Closure: School closures were implemented due to concerns about heatstroke, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses among students and teachers. The high temperatures made it unsafe for prolonged periods of outdoor activities, including recess and physical education.
• Alternative Learning Plans: Many schools implemented alternative learning plans, including online classes and adjusted schedules, to minimize the disruption to education. However, these alternative plans do not always address the needs of students who lack access to technology or a suitable learning environment at home.
• Impact on Students and Parents: Parents expressed concerns about the disruption to their children's education and the added burden of managing childcare during the school closures. “The heat was unbearable,” one parent shared. “It was the right decision to close the schools to keep our kids safe.”

Health Concerns Related to the Heatwave

The extreme heat posed serious health risks to the population of Manila, increasing the incidence of heatstroke, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses.

• Heatstroke Hospitalizations: Reports from hospitals across Manila indicated a surge in the number of patients presenting with heatstroke symptoms, requiring immediate medical attention. While exact figures are still being collected, the increase in cases is clearly linked to the intense heatwave.
• Heatwave Safety Recommendations: PAGASA and the Department of Health (DOH) issued urgent advisories recommending that people stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day, drink plenty of fluids, and take precautions to prevent heatstroke. These recommendations included limiting strenuous outdoor activities.
• Relevant Health Advisories: The DOH website provided links to detailed information and resources on heatwave safety, including tips on recognizing the signs of heatstroke and seeking appropriate medical care.

Government Response and Mitigation Efforts

The Philippine government responded to the heatwave by implementing several measures aimed at mitigating the impact on the public.

• Public Health Campaigns: The DOH launched a public awareness campaign to educate the public about heat-related illnesses, preventive measures, and the importance of staying hydrated. This campaign utilized various media channels, including television, radio, and social media.
• Cooling Centers: The city government of Manila opened several cooling centers to provide relief to residents affected by the heat. These centers offered a safe and cool environment for people to escape the intense heat.
• Government Announcements: Regular updates and announcements were made through official channels, keeping the public informed about the evolving situation and providing guidance on staying safe.

Long-term Implications and Future Preparedness

The Manila heatwave highlights the growing threat of climate change and its impact on urban areas. The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events are expected to increase, necessitating improved heatwave preparedness strategies.

• Climate Change: The heatwave serves as a stark reminder of the need for addressing climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The long-term implications include more frequent and severe heatwaves, impacting public health and the economy.
• Improved Infrastructure: Investing in infrastructure improvements, such as better air conditioning in schools and public spaces, is crucial for protecting vulnerable populations during heatwaves. This is a long-term investment, but one with far-reaching benefits.
• Increased Public Awareness: Ongoing public awareness campaigns are essential to educate the public about the risks associated with heatwaves and the steps they can take to protect themselves and their families.

Conclusion

The Manila heatwave and subsequent school closures serve as a stark reminder of the escalating impact of climate change and the urgent need for comprehensive heatwave preparedness strategies. Understanding the severity of the situation, its impact on education and public health, and the government's response are crucial steps in mitigating future crises. To stay informed about the ongoing situation and to learn more about protecting yourself and your family during future Manila heatwaves, continue to monitor updates from reliable news sources and government agencies like PAGASA and the DOH. Remember to prioritize safety and take precautions during periods of extreme heat. Stay informed about future Manila heatwave school closures to ensure your family's safety and well-being.