A severe heat wave in late June triggered a dramatic rise in emergency room visits and heat-related deaths in Maryland, according to the latest data from the Maryland Department of Health.
Between June 22 and June 28, 472 people sought care for heat-related illnesses at emergency rooms or urgent care centers, a sharp increase from just 93 cases the previous week. The National Weather Service reported heat index values reaching up to 110 degrees in parts of the state during that time.
The extreme heat also led to seven additional deaths, bringing the total number of heat-related fatalities this season to eight. With summer still underway, health officials are urging residents to take precautions as hot weather continues.
“We are saddened by these recent deaths,” said David McCallister, a spokesperson for the health department. “They serve as a reminder to take the necessary steps to avoid overheating.”
He advised residents to regularly check on vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly, children, and those with chronic health issues. The current data is part of a seasonal heat illness report that runs from late April through September each year.
McCallister noted that most ER visits were among males (63%), individuals aged 18-44 (43%), and white residents (53%). Of the eight deaths reported, 88% were male, 63% were white, and 75% were aged 65 and older.
So far this season, there have been 729 heat-related ER visits — more than 60% of last year’s total. Most visits have come from the Baltimore City area and the National Capital Region (Health Regions 3 and 5).
Danielle Knatz, who leads Baltimore County Fire’s EMS division, confirmed a rise in emergency calls during the heat wave, particularly for incidents occurring outdoors, such as in parking lots, on streets, and at worksites.
“Many cases were linked to heat exhaustion during physical activity,” Knatz said. “We also saw some elderly individuals who may have had underlying health issues or were on medications that made them more vulnerable to the heat.”
To better respond, EMS teams stocked up on cold packs to aggressively cool patients in need.
The National Weather Service issued heat advisories for central Maryland and the Eastern Shore through Tuesday, with heat index values expected to reach as high as 107 degrees near the Chesapeake Bay.
Under new labor laws, employers must now provide additional rest breaks and cooling options for workers exposed to high temperatures.
Knatz emphasized the importance of weather awareness and preparation: “Stay hydrated, rest often, and monitor conditions.”
The state health department also recommends avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks, and wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing with sunscreen during extreme heat.
