BALTIMORE, MD (June 1, 2011) – The Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH) has issued a heat advisory alerting local jurisdictions within Maryland’s National Capital, Central and Southern regions of an extended severe heat event now entering its third day. These jurisdictions have activated or will activate their heat response plans. The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for these regions for today from 12:00 noon to 8:00 PM.

Each consecutive day of severe heat increases the health risks for our most vulnerable Marylanders, especially seniors, children and anyone with serious underlying health conditions,” said Frances Phillips, DHMH Deputy Secretary for Public Health Services. “We urge everyone to take precautions for their families, pets and any neighbors who might be at higher risk because of their health or home conditions.”

 During the first day (May 30, 2011) of the current severe heat event, emergency rooms across the state experienced a total of 51 visits due to heat related or dehydration complaints, according to Maryland’s biomonitoring system known as ESSENCE. There have been no confirmed heat related deaths in Maryland this season. There were 32 confirmed heat related deaths in the summer of 2010; six heat related deaths in 2009; 17 in 2008 and 21 in 2007.

To read the full release: click here.