SOUTHERN MARYLAND — After a stretch of dangerous heat sent dozens of residents across Southern Maryland to emergency rooms, temperatures have finally begun to cool. But the latest report from the Maryland Department of Health shows the toll that heat has already taken: 47 people from Region 5 — which includes Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s counties — were treated for heat-related illness between July 27 and Aug. 2.
The report also confirmed that each of the three Southern Maryland counties — Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s — has reported one heat-related death this season. These fatalities are among 25 statewide heat-related deaths recorded so far in 2025, most involving older adults with preexisting medical conditions that increased their vulnerability to extreme temperatures.
Region 5, which includes the three Southern Maryland counties along with Montgomery and Prince George’s, accounted for 47 of Maryland’s 185 emergency department and urgent care visits reported during the most recent week. Tuesday, July 29, marked the peak, with 53 emergency visits statewide in a single day for symptoms including dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Local Impact Reflects Statewide Trend
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner reported that 21 of Maryland’s 25 heat-related deaths this year involved residents age 65 or older.
While fatalities have disproportionately affected older adults, last week’s emergency room data show that younger adults were most likely to fall ill during the peak heat. Of the 185 ED visits across the state:
- 86 were individuals ages 18 to 44
- 50 were between ages 45 and 64
- 36 were age 65 or older
Risks Remain
Though the weather has eased up, health officials caution that families should continue to take preventive steps — especially to protect seniors and those without air conditioning.
The Maryland Department of Health recommends:
- Staying hydrated and limiting time outdoors during peak heat
- Wearing light, loose-fitting clothing
- Checking on elderly neighbors and family members regularly
- Never leaving children or pets unattended in vehicles
Anyone experiencing signs of heatstroke — such as confusion, dizziness or hot, dry skin — should seek emergency medical care immediately.
More information and weekly heat safety updates can be found at preparedness.health.maryland.gov.
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