Overview
- The Maryland Department of Health confirmed the state’s first heat-related death of 2026, reporting an adult male in his 70s to 80s who died in Calvert County.
- State data show 145 emergency room and urgent-care visits and 150 emergency-service calls for heat-related illness so far this year.
- Maryland Secretary of Health Dr. Meena Seshamani offered condolences to the family and urged residents to stay hydrated, avoid midday outdoor activity, and never leave children or pets in vehicles.
- Counties have opened cooling centers and residents can find locations, hours, and accommodations by calling 2-1-1 or contacting their local health department.
- Officials point to 36 heat-related deaths in 2025 after multiple days with feels-like temperatures near 100°F as the reason for heightened outreach and preparedness this season.