MANILA — The Department of Health is urging the public to recognize the warning signs of heat-related illnesses as a strong El Niño raises the risk of hotter and drier conditions in the country.

The DOH warned that heat stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

Signs may include loss of consciousness, very high body temperature, difficulty breathing, confusion or difficulty communicating, slurred speech and convulsions.

Anyone showing signs of heat stroke should be brought immediately to the nearest health facility or assistance should be sought through the National Emergency Hotline 911, according to the health department.

The public is also advised to watch for heat exhaustion, which may develop before a more serious heat-related illness.

Symptoms include extreme fatigue or weakness, dizziness, muscle cramps, nausea and excessive sweating.

To reduce the risk of heat-related illness, the DOH advises people to wear light-colored and lightweight or breathable clothing, stay hydrated and limit strenuous physical activity during the hottest periods of the day.

DOH information materials generally recommend drinking around eight to 10 glasses of water daily to maintain hydration during hot conditions.

The warning comes as PAGASA monitors an intensifying El Niño in the tropical Pacific.

The state weather bureau said a strong El Niño is currently active and is expected to strengthen into a very strong El Niño between September and December 2026. Climate models indicate that the phenomenon could persist through the first half of 2027.

El Niño increases the likelihood of below-normal rainfall and may contribute to dry spells and drought in parts of the Philippines.

With hotter conditions expected in the coming months, health officials are reminding the public not to ignore symptoms associated with prolonged exposure to heat.

PUBLIC REMINDER:

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are not the same. Symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, cramps and heavy sweating may signal heat exhaustion, while loss of consciousness, confusion, very high body temperature or convulsions require urgent medical attention.

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