Maryland has already recorded heat deaths in 2026. Here’s how to stay safe.

A dangerous stretch of summer heat is settling over Maryland, where officials say hundreds of people have already sought medical care for heat-related illnesses and two people have died. With the heat index expected to reach 105 degrees, health experts are warning residents to know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Baltimore City’s health commissioner, Dr. Michelle Taylor, issued the season’s first Code Red Extreme Heat Alert in the region Wednesday.

After issuing the alert, which is in effect through Friday evening, Taylor said it was a reminder that extreme heat is not just “uncomfortable.”

“It’s a serious public health threat and marks the beginning of what could be a challenging summer season,” she said in a statement.

The Maryland Department of Health reported 36 heat-related deaths in 2025. A Calvert County man in his 70s was the first reported heat-related death of 2026. There have been 234 calls to emergency services for heat-related illnesses, and 206 visits to emergency rooms and urgent-care centers.

Know the warning signs of heat-related issues

The temperatures this summer could put you at risk of heat exhaustion, heat stroke or heat cramps.

The state health department advises residents to look out for these warning signs:

• Muscle pain or spasms
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Extreme weakness
• Nausea
• Disorientation
• Rapid, shallow breathing

Tips to beat the heat

If you can, stay indoors and keep your home cool. The World Health Organization suggests closing and covering windows to block direct sunlight when it’s hotter outdoors than indoors. At night, when it’s cooler outdoors, open the windows and use the night air to cool down.

Try to schedule outdoor physical activity during cooler parts of the day. Don’t work too hard, and make sure to take breaks. You can also visit a local cooling center.

If you’re working in the heat, the health department encourages the following:

• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing
• Drink water every 15 minutes, even if you’re not thirsty
• Spend time in air-conditioned buildings during breaks and after work
• If you feel faint or weak, stop what you’re doing and get to a cool place immediately

To prevent dehydration, drink at least two glasses (16 to 32 ounces) of water or fruit juice each hour. Avoid alcohol, caffeine and overly sweetened beverages.

Never leave children or pets in a car. If you’re walking with a baby stroller, place a thin, wet cloth over it; using dry fabric will make it hotter inside.

Be sure to check in on people aged 65 and older and anyone with a chronic illness — they are at the highest risk of heat-related health issues.

For more resources on keeping cool, visit the Maryland Office of Preparedness and Response’s extreme-heat webpage.