BALTIMORE, Maryland — Maryland has recorded 38 heat-related deaths this year, already exceeding last year’s total and reaching the state’s second-highest level in 15 years with two months remaining in the official heat season.
Thirty-one deaths occurred in July, when the state endured an intense heat wave and several days with temperatures around 100 degrees. Only 2012 recorded more heat deaths, with 46, according to the Maryland Department of Health.
The state has also reported 1,627 emergency room or urgent care visits and 1,242 emergency medical service calls involving heat-related illnesses. Because fatalities are counted only after confirmation by the medical examiner, the current total could increase.
Older adults have faced the greatest danger. People 65 and older accounted for 61% of reported deaths, while those ages 45 to 64 represented 32%. Health officials said seniors living alone may be especially vulnerable because nobody is available to recognize worsening symptoms or summon assistance.
Emergency physician Dr. Omoyemi Adebayo urged residents to hydrate before going outdoors, wear appropriate clothing and schedule regular cooling breaks. Heavy sweating, nausea, dizziness and muscle cramps can indicate heat exhaustion, while confusion, fainting or difficulty speaking may signal potentially fatal heat stroke.
Maryland monitors heat-related illnesses and deaths from May through September and updates its public dashboard each Wednesday.
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