SUN: Maryland reports record-breaking 50 heat-related deaths

MARYLAND — The 2026 heat season is now the deadliest in known history, as new data from the Maryland Department of Health reports a total of 50 heat-related fatalities since May, surpassing the previous record set of 46 in 2012.

The number of heat-related deaths soared in July, with 43 deaths reported just last month, according to a Wednesday update to the state’s weather-related illness dashboard. Fatalities could continue to climb with weeks remaining in the 2026 heat season that runs from May through September.

Maryland Health Secretary Meena Seshamani and the health department urge Marylanders to check in on vulnerable neighbors and loved ones for the remainder of the summer, while staying cool and hydrating to avoid future health emergencies.

“With each tragic loss, the Secretary and Department extend our condolences to the loved ones of these individuals,” Seshamani said in a written statement Thursday. “We continue to work with Marylanders on steps they can take to guard against overheating, including visiting a local cooling center and checking on older individuals and people with chronic diseases who are particularly vulnerable to heat.”

Read the full article on The Baltimore Sun’s website.