Over 100 die as Mexico reels under extreme heat: health ministry
More than 1,000 heat-related emergencies reported in Mexico between June 12 and 25
June 30, 2023
Mexican government data showed that over 100 people have lost their lives due to extreme heat in the country in June, as climate change is forcing temperatures to hit record-high, with a number of heat waves also taking a toll on Latin American countries.
According to scientists, global warming is exacerbating adverse weather, with many countries experiencing record-high temperatures.
The data released on Wednesday by Mexican Health Ministry showed over 1,000 heat-related emergencies were reported in Mexico between June 12 and 25, of which 104 resulted in deaths, according to AFP.
Authorities had already reported eight deaths between April 14 and May 31, bringing the total to 112.
The major cause of death was heat stroke, followed by dehydration, according to the health ministry.
The major fatalities were reported from the northern regions of Mexico, with 64 deaths recorded in the northeastern state of Nuevo Leon and 19 in neighbouring Tamaulipas, bordering the US state of Texas, which has also been hit by extreme heat.
The health ministry said: "In Mexico, a maximum temperature of 49 degrees Celsius [120 Fahrenheit] was recorded this week in the northwestern state of Sonora."
"Average maximum temperatures in Mexico during the summer fluctuate between 30 and 45 degrees Celsius," it noted.
Authorities have further warned the country of 127 million people that another heatwave that could affect the country starting on July 1.
In May, the United Nations warned that it is near-certain that 2023-2027 will be the warmest five-year period ever recorded, as greenhouse gasses and El Nino combine to send temperatures soaring.
