Most severe heatwave of the year in the coming days
Health authorities in Yucatán are warning residents to take precautions in the face of increasing temperatures.
In recent days, temperatures have exceeded 40 C / 104 F in several communities.
“It is important to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and stay hydrated, as well as using accessories such as umbrellas and wide rim hats,” said Dr. María Elena Gonazález, president of Yucatán’s physician’s college.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include heavy sweating. cold, changes in blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, dizziness, headache, and weakness.
Children and senior citizens are particularly predisposed to suffer the worst effect of the heat, though young adults are by no means exempt.
Last week, in the neighboring state of Campeche, a worker on the Mayan Train rail system collapsed and died from heat stroke, underlaying the dangers or over exhaustion in the heat.
Also at risk are athletes, especially runners who train during daylight hours but also in the evenings, when temperatures and humidity are still extremely elevated.
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Another useful tool in avoiding heat exhaustion and dehydration, especially for athletes, is the consumption of electrolyte beverages that replenish minerals lost through sweat.
Special attention should also be placed on household pets, especially some breeds of dogs who have a particularly hard time regulating their body temperatures.
Temperatures on the Yucatán Peninsula are the highest in April and May, not during the summer when things cool down a bit thanks to the rainy season.
Environmentalists have noted that this year’s extreme heat is part of a trend toward more extreme weather on the Peninsula driven in part by climate change.
However, it is also important to note that the rise in temperatures, especially within cities, is widely attributed to deforestation.
Senior Editor Carlos Rosado van der Gracht is a Mexican expedition/Canadian photographer and adventure leader. Born in Mérida, Carlos holds multimedia, philosophy, and translation degrees from universities in Mexico, Canada and Norway.
