Deadly Sonora heat wave expected to intensify over next 3 days
The dangerous heat wave, which has lasted more than six weeks, has already caused 22 deaths and sickened 350 as of Tuesday morning. The post Deadly Sonora heat wave expected to intensify over next 3 days appeared first on Mexico News Daily
A severe heat wave is set to worsen over the next three days in Sonora, a Mexican state bordering the United States. Temperatures are forecast to surpass 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), with some areas reaching up to 47 degrees Celsius (116 degrees Fahrenheit). The National Meteorological Service (SMN) of Mexico has reported that this dangerous heat wave, which has persisted for over six weeks, has already claimed 22 lives and hospitalized 350 people, as of Tuesday morning, according to the Sonora state Health Ministry.
The peak temperature recorded yesterday afternoon in Sonora's El Pinacate locations was 46.9°C. The cities of San Luis Río Colorado, Caborca, and Hermosillo are expected to experience temperatures between 43°C and 47°C. In the state capital of Hermosillo, humidity levels hover around 45%, while the ultraviolet radiation index is in the "extreme" range, between 8 and 11.
The SMN is also monitoring potential summer monsoon conditions, with isolated storms noted in central and southern Sonora's mountainous areas. Despite the arrival of monsoons on Tuesday, temperatures are not anticipated to decrease. Residents can expect moderate to heavy rainfall, lightning, and gusty winds.
Construction and agricultural workers have been cautioned to take necessary precautions, with employers urged to provide regular breaks for workers to hydrate and minimize exposure during peak sunlight hours. Health authorities are advising the public to stay hydrated, wear light-colored, lightweight clothing with long sleeves, and use hats or umbrellas for sun protection. People are advised to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, as older adults and children are at the highest risk.
Symptoms of heatstroke, or "golpe de calor," include severe headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, extremely hot skin, and loss of consciousness. Health authorities have urged the public to seek immediate medical attention by dialing 911 in the event of such symptoms.
Written by urgent.news from Mexico News Daily's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
