Maryland Health Department announces first heat-related death of 2026

BALTIMORE (WBFF) — State health officials cautioned residents to take precautions after Maryland confirmed its first heat-related death of 2026.

The Maryland Department of Health identified the victim as an adult man aged between 70 and 80 in Calvert County.

Our condolences go out to the individual’s family and loved ones,” Maryland Secretary of Health Dr. Meena Seshamani said. “As we anticipate more hot days coming our way, we want to remind Marylanders of the steps they can take to guard against overheating, including visiting a local cooling center. Remember to check on those who are particularly vulnerable to heat, including older individuals and people with chronic diseases.

Residents who need a cooling center are encouraged to contact their local health department or call 2-1-1 and provide their county location and zip code for information about locations, hours of operation and available accommodations.

The Maryland Department of Health urged residents to take steps to cope with extreme heat, including:

• drinking plenty of fluids
• avoiding alcohol, caffeine and overly sweetened beverages
• wearing loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing
• avoiding direct sunlight and wearing sunscreen; staying in the shade when possible
• avoiding salt tablets unless advised by a doctor
• scheduling physical activity in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler, with breaks as needed.

Health officials said warning signs of heat-related illness, such as heat exhaustion, heat stroke or heat cramps can include:

• muscle pain or spasms
• headache
• vomiting
• extreme weakness
• nausea
• disorientation
• rapid, shallow breathing

Anyone experiencing symptoms should contact a health care professional and seek emergency medical care when warranted.

The department also warned Marylanders never to leave children or pets in a car and to check twice to ensure a vehicle is empty. Even on a 70-degree day, officials said, the temperature inside a vehicle can climb to more than 100 degrees within 30 minutes.

More information is available on the Office of Preparedness and Response Extreme Heat webpage, which includes details on heat-related illnesses and safety tips.

The department monitors heat-related illness and deaths in Maryland from May through September, with information updated every Wednesday on the Weather-Related Illness Data Dashboard.

During the 2025 heat season, Maryland recorded 36 heat-related deaths.