MANILA - The head index on Tuesday reached a scorching 52.3 degrees Celsius in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija, state weather bureau PAGASA said.

PAGASA recorded this heat index, the highest in the country that day, at 2 p.m.

The heat index measures human discomfort based on the actual temperature felt by the body.

PAGASA also recorded high heat index numbers in NAIA Pasay City, M.Manila (41.1 C); Science Garden, Quezon City (45.4 C); Sangley Point, Cavite (50.2 C); and Clark Airport, Pampanga (51.9 C).

PAGASA said a heat index between 41 and 54 degrees Celsius is categorized under the "danger" level.

This may cause heat cramps and exhaustion. Heat stroke is also probable with continued activity.

To cope with the hot weather, people should stay indoors and on the lowest floors as much as possible, PAGASA said.

The weather bureau added that people should wear light clothes, drink plenty of water, and avoid eating foods high in protein which can increase body heat.