Mexico Heat Wave Claims 48 Lives Since March

Mexico has recorded 48 deaths from the intense heat wave it has suffered since last March, the government reported, as scientists warn temperature records could rise further in the coming days.

An epidemiological report from the Health Ministry, with data up to May 21, also details that 956 people have suffered various conditions due to the high temperatures.

"In the present heat season which began on March 17 and will extend until October 5, there has been an accumulated total of 48 deaths nationwide," the report sent to the press by the Health Ministry states.

In 2023, a record 419 heat-related deaths occurred during Mexico's nearly eight-month hot season, according to official statistics.

The state of Veracruz, with an extensive Gulf coast, has the highest number of deaths at 14, followed by Tabasco, San Luis Potosí and Tamaulipas with eight each.

Scientists from the National Autonomous University of Mexico warned that heat could intensify further over the next two weeks to break historic records. 2024 is "headed to be the hottest year on record," said climate change researcher Francisco Estrada.

The intense heat, which has depleted water bottles and ice bags in Mexico City stores, combined with low winds has spiked pollution in the megacity of 22 million where 6.5 million vehicles circulate.

Health alerts have been issued on high pollution days, taking over 20% of cars off the roads. Authorities constantly issue recommendations like staying indoors, using sunscreen and hydrating.

One dramatic case is the deaths of dozens of howler monkeys in the Tabasco and Chiapas jungles, apparently from temperatures exceeding 45°C. The animals faint from heat and fall 15-20 meters from trees.