Bangkok Post: Extreme Heat Leads To School Closures In Manila

Pedro Alvarez

4 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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The Severity of the Heatwave in Manila

The Bangkok Post report detailed a severe heatwave in Manila, with temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels. Temperatures reportedly soared to 40 degrees Celsius, exceeding the average for this time of year by a significant 8 degrees. This extreme heat posed a serious threat to the health and well-being of students and teachers alike. The intensity of the heat is further underscored by the number of reported heat-related illnesses.

• Temperature Readings: Reliable sources, as cited by the Bangkok Post, recorded temperatures consistently above 38 degrees Celsius for several consecutive days.
• Heat-Related Illnesses: Dozens of cases of heat exhaustion and heat stroke were reported among students and teachers during the peak of the heatwave.
• Heatwave Duration: The extreme heat lasted for over a week, forcing the prolonged closure of schools across the city.

This prolonged exposure to extreme heat created a dangerous environment for learning and highlighted the immediate need for action.

Impact on the Education System in Manila

The Manila school closures due to extreme heat had a significant ripple effect on the education system. The Bangkok Post's report estimated that over 100 schools were affected, impacting tens of thousands of students. This disruption to the academic calendar caused considerable learning loss, potentially affecting academic performance throughout the year.

• Schools Closed: Over 100 schools, encompassing both public and private institutions, were temporarily closed.
• Students Affected: The closures affected an estimated 50,000 students, disrupting their learning routines and potentially hindering their progress.
• Alternative Learning: While some schools attempted to implement online learning, the lack of consistent access to reliable internet and devices presented significant challenges.
• Long-Term Effects: The potential long-term effects on academic performance are a growing concern, requiring further assessment and remedial strategies.

The disruption caused by the closures underscores the vulnerability of the education system to extreme weather events.

Government Response to the Extreme Heat and School Closures

The Philippine government responded to the crisis by issuing public health advisories and urging schools to prioritize student safety. The Bangkok Post reported on statements from government officials expressing concern and outlining plans to mitigate the impact of future heatwaves. While specific measures varied, several key actions were taken.

• Government Actions: The government implemented measures including providing hydration stations in public areas and distributing educational materials on heat safety.
• Official Statements: Government officials issued statements emphasizing the importance of preventing heat-related illnesses and ensuring the safety of students and teachers.
• Long-Term Solutions: Discussions began about investing in improved school infrastructure, such as better ventilation and air conditioning systems, to address future heatwaves.

While these actions are a positive step, further measures are needed to prepare for the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.

Health Concerns and Safety Measures

The extreme heat poses significant health risks, especially for children. Heat stroke, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses can have serious consequences. Schools implemented various safety measures, such as providing frequent hydration breaks and encouraging the use of hats and light clothing.

• Health Risks: Children are particularly vulnerable to heatstroke and dehydration due to their smaller body size and less efficient thermoregulation.
• School Safety Measures: Schools prioritized hydration breaks, encouraged students to wear light clothing, and implemented early dismissals when temperatures were at their peak.
• Parental Advice: Parents received advisories on how to protect their children from the heat, including tips on hydration, sun protection, and recognizing the signs of heat-related illnesses.

These measures, though helpful, highlight the need for more comprehensive strategies to protect students and staff during periods of extreme heat.

Conclusion: Understanding Manila School Closures Due to Extreme Heat

The Bangkok Post's reporting on Manila school closures due to extreme heat provides crucial insights into the severe impact of climate change on communities and education systems. The unprecedented scale of the school closures, the number of students affected, and the disruption to the academic calendar underscore the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate the effects of extreme heat. To learn more about Manila school closures due to extreme heat and stay updated on the impact of extreme heat on Manila schools, continue to follow reliable news sources like the Bangkok Post for the latest information. Understanding these events is crucial to developing effective strategies for protecting vulnerable populations and ensuring the continuity of education in the face of climate change.