Severe heat shuts down schools in the Philippines
A strong heat wave has forced many schools in Manila, the capital of the Philippines to close.
This has affected millions of students, as local officials say the extreme temperatures are too dangerous for children to attend classes.
The Philippine Weather Service warned that the heat index, which measures how hot it feels when humidity is factored in, could reach a dangerous level.
This can cause heat exhaustion and cramps. Although the actual temperature was expected to be around 33°C (91°F), officials decided it was safer to cancel classes in many areas.
In Malabon, a district in the capital, more than 68,000 students across 42 schools had to stay home. Other districts, such as Valenzuela, have switched to online learning to keep children safe from the extreme heat.
This is not the first time a heat wave has disrupted schools in the Philippines.
Similar conditions last year led to frequent class suspensions.
Climate experts warn that global warming is making extreme weather events more common. According to UNICEF, extreme weather affected 242 million children worldwide in 2024.
One local official said the decision to close schools was necessary to protect students.
"The safety of children is our top priority. We cannot risk their health in this kind of heat," he said.
Reports indicate that students were struggling to concentrate even before schools shut down.
The country is now entering the dry season, meaning high temperatures could continue for weeks. Authorities say they will keep monitoring the situation and adjust school schedules as needed.
