Deadly Heatwaves Blanketing Mexico Kills Over 100
Human-induced climate change has skyrocketed the likelihood of deadly heatwaves, which blanketed the Southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America. It is projected that 2023-2027 will be the warmest five-year period ever recorded, with greenhouse gasses and El Nino shooting up temperatures.
Wonder what is the current situation of heatwaves in Mexico? Do you know how you can better protect yourselves from extreme heat conditions? This Pacific Prime Latin America will walk you through the current weather conditions around Mexico, and what you can do to prioritize your physical well-being.
Heatwaves Wreaked Havoc in Mexico
The country of 127 million people had endured dangerous daytime and nighttime temperatures as the heat waves struck Mexico, and the impact stretched north to Texas, Arizona, and Nevada and south to Belize, Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador.
The maximum temperature recorded in Mexico was 49°C (120°F), as the area has been blanketed by a larger and lingering region of high pressures known as a heat dome, where hot air is trapped close to the ground and further heated under constant sunshine.
Over 1,000 heat-related emergencies were reported in Mexico within 2 weeks in mid-June, of which resulted in 104 deaths. However, the number of people affected could be much more than what was reported, as the full-picture of head-related deaths are usually only confirmed months after the event.
Existing drought conditions worsened the situation by preventing the dispersion of polluting articles, decreasing water availability and the ability to generate electricity through hydropower. Dehydration was the second major cause of death after heatstroke.
In face of such adverse weather conditions, it is important to understand what extreme heat is, the symptoms, and how you can protect yourself during heat events.
Understanding Extreme Heat
Extreme heat conditions refer to the weather being much hotter/humid than the average local temperature. For instance, we all expect summer to be warm, but it’s a problem when the heat turns out to be unbearable or even life-threatening.
At this critical period, heat-related illnesses strike frequently and have been more or less affecting individuals from all walks of life.
Heat-related illness
Sweating typically aids in regulating internal organ temperature by promoting heat loss through evaporation. However, during intense exercise or exertion in hot, humid conditions, the body’s cooling mechanisms become less effective, potentially leading to heat-related illnesses.
There are three main types of heat-related illnesses, all of which occur when the body fails to maintain its normal core temperature of 37°C (98°F): heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke. Each of these conditions varies in severity and symptoms:
1. Heat cramps
Heat cramps refer to muscle spasms caused by an immense loss of salt and water in the body, often in the abdomen, arms, or calves. Heat cramps can occur from prolonged exposure to extreme heat combined with dehydration.
Symptoms
- Heavy sweating during intense exercise
- Muscle pain
- Spasms
2. Heat exhaustion
It is a condition that happens when your body overheats for an extended period of time, especially when combined with dehydration.
Symptoms
- Heavy sweating
- Fast and weak pulse
- Nausea
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Pale skin
- Fainting
3. Heat stroke
Heat stroke is the most serious medical condition, requiring immediate emergency treatment. It occurs when the body can no longer regulate its temperature, reaching over 40.5˚C/104.9˚F.
Potentially fatal, this condition usually occurs as a progression from the above conditions, or sometimes strikes without prior symptoms. It has symptoms similar to those of heat exhaustion, except that it causes a fast and strong pulse.
Responding to Extreme Heat-Related Illness in Mexico
From recognizing and responding to heat-related symptoms to getting hydration and medical attention, it is important to respond accurately and swiftly to these illnesses, or it can turn serious in no time.
Recognizing and Responding to Symptoms
The first step in responding to heat-related illnesses is recognizing the symptoms. Once symptoms are identified, immediately stop all physical activity. Continuing can rapidly worsen the condition. Find a cool, shaded area to rest and begin the cooling process.
Cooling Strategies
Move to an air-conditioned space if possible. If outdoors, seek shade or create a makeshift shelter. Use fans if available. Apply cold, wet cloths to the skin, take a cool shower or bath, or use ice packs on the neck, armpits, and groin where large blood vessels are close to the skin.
For suspected heat stroke, immersion in cold water may be necessary, but this should be done under medical supervision. Remove any unnecessary clothing and loosen tight garments to allow better air circulation.
Hydration and Medical Attention
Proper hydration is crucial. Sip cool water or sports drinks, but avoid very cold drinks as they can cause stomach cramps. Steer clear of alcohol and caffeinated beverages. If symptoms of heat exhaustion worsen or don’t improve within an hour, seek medical help.
For heat stroke, always seek emergency medical care immediately. While waiting for help, continue cooling efforts and monitor vital signs, being prepared to perform CPR if necessary in severe cases.
Recovery and Prevention
After experiencing a heat-related illness, rest for several days. Avoid hot weather and strenuous activity until fully recovered, and return to activity gradually with a doctor’s approval. Use the experience to analyze what led to the heat illness and adjust future prevention strategies accordingly.
Protect Yourself From Heatwaves with Health Insurance
The impact of global warming on weather conditions is long-lasting, and it is also estimated that the heatwaves will be striking more and more often, causing daytime and nighttime temperatures to rise.
Other than knowing what to do when unexpected heat-related illnesses strike, having health insurance is important. Not only does it ensure access to emergency medical care, but it also provides you with prevention options such as medication and guidance on managing health during extreme weather events.
Pacific Prime can help you find and secure health insurance in Mexico that covers medical emergencies in the event of sudden illnesses, whether it is heat-induced or not. Our team of expert advisors is experienced in giving impartial advice on your healthcare needs and offering claims or form-filling support throughout your insurance journey.
Contact us today, or use our advanced online quotation system to instantly get quoted by world-class insurers!
Since joining Pacific Prime, Eric was exposed to a new world of insurance. Having learned about insurance products extensively, he has taken joy and satisfaction in helping individuals and businesses manage risks and protect themselves against financial loss through the power of words.
Although born and raised in Hong Kong, he spent a quarter of his life living and studying in the UK. He believes his multicultural experience is a great asset in understanding the needs and wants of expats and globe-trotters.
Eric’s strengths lie in his strong research, analytical, and communication skills, obtained through his BA in Linguistics from the University of York and MSc in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) from the University of Bristol.
Outside of work, he enjoys some me-time gaming and reading on his own, occasionally going absolutely mental on a night out with friends.
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