Community Corner

Summer So Far: Five Heat Deaths in Maryland

If the past is any indication, we can expect more heat deaths in Maryland this summer.

By Brandie Jefferson - Senior Patch Field Editor

Temperatures have come down substantially this week – we’ve gone from a heat wave to a “cold front,” according to the National Weather Service - but according to several summer outlooks, we’ll see more severe heat this year. 

And if the past is any indications, so we’ll also see more heat-related deaths. 

Maryland has seen five heat-related deaths so far in 2013: the first was a Howard County man between 45 and 65-years old. Two women, both over 65-years-old died in Wimico County, and in Baltimore County a man who was 65 or older and a 16-month-old girl who was forgotten in a car

Last year year there were 46 heat-related deaths in the state, according to the Department of Health and Human Services.  

Last summer was the third-hottest on record, and the hottest ever on record in the D.C. area. According to Senior Meteorologist James Aman, at WeatherBug, we can expect more of the same this year. “After examining all available data, we expect to see a summer that is somewhat similar to 2012,” he said in a statement, adding that “severe storms and tornadoes” will make this summer an “interesting season.” 

For now, according to the weather service, we’re in the clear. “Words that have been scarcely used over the past few weeks – such as sweeping/drier/cooler/stable – can finally be used to describe the latter half of this week’s [weather],” this week’s forecast discussion reads.  

But stay vigilant about heat safety and remember these tips: 

  • Drink plenty of fluids, such as water and fruit juice, to prevent dehydration. Alcohol can impair the body’s sweat mechanism, as can some common medications, such as antihistamines and diuretics.
  • Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothes.
  • Avoid direct sunlight by staying in the shade and wear sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
  • Stay in air-conditioned areas when possible. If your home is not air-conditioned, consider a visit to a shopping mall or public library or stay with family or friends who have air conditioning.
  • Check on elderly relatives or neighbors at least daily, and make sure they have a cool environment to live in during extreme heat.
  • Take it easy when outdoors. Athletes and those who work outdoors should take short breaks when feeling fatigued. Schedule physical activity during the morning or evening when it is cooler.


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