Heat Exhaustion Strikes 180 Students in Basilan
In Basilan, 180 students suffered heat exhaustion after taking part in a parade, local leaders said. The event marked the start of the intramurals at Basilan National High School. The intense heat and prolonged outdoor exposure during the parade caused many students to faint or lose consciousness.
Authorities in Isabela City responded quickly by providing first aid, including cooling treatments and oral hydration. Some students were taken to nearby health facilities for further care. This incident highlights the risks linked to outdoor activities during extreme heat.
Local Response and Weather Conditions
Officials reported that the heat index in Isabela City reached between 35 to 41 degrees Celsius during the parade, with temperatures remaining high the following day. Of the 180 affected students, 52 were admitted to hospitals for close medical monitoring but remained stable.
In response, the city government recommended suspending outdoor drills and parades between 12 noon and 4 p.m. They also urged organizers to provide shaded rest areas and hydration stations to prevent similar incidents. Monitoring weather advisories, especially heat index alerts, was also advised to ensure safer planning of outdoor events.
Official Measures and Future Precautions
The state weather bureau has temporarily halted daily heat index advisories due to the start of the rainy season. Meanwhile, the mayor of Isabela City called for a formal investigation and inter-agency review. The goal is to strengthen prevention strategies and improve emergency responses for future events.
This event serves as a strong reminder of the dangers posed by extreme heat, particularly for vulnerable groups like students engaged in physical activities outdoors.
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