Feeling extra cranky behind the wheel lately? The heat might be to blame.

Studies show that hot weather can make drivers more prone to road rage. According to Michelle Ann Abundo-Contreras, national chair of the Psychology Practitioners in the Public Service under the Psychological Association of the Philippines, this is explained by something called the heat hypothesis.

“The hotter it gets, the more likely a person is to feel irritated or aggressive,” she told the Philippine News Agency in an interview.

Just days after PAGASA officially declared the start of the dry season on March 26, a road rage incident in Antipolo City turned deadly. The shooting happened along Marcos Highway and left one person dead and three others hurt. It reportedly started as a fistfight and ended when one of the people involved pulled out a gun.

More Than Just the Heat

Abundo-Contreras pointed out that other things can add fuel to the fire—like heavy traffic, stress, and exhaustion.

“If a driver is already tired or in a rush, and then they’re stuck in traffic under the heat, it’s a recipe for aggressive driving,” she said.

Mental health issues like anxiety can also play a role. Stress from work or problems at home can make people more likely to snap on the road.

“There are also people who just don’t like being overtaken. Some say it’s a narcissistic trait, and it can lead to road rage too,” she added.

So next time you're out driving in the heat, it might help to take a deep breath, stay cool, and give other drivers a little extra patience. It could make a big difference.