Health Ministry Warns Jamaicans to Guard Against Heat Illness as Temperatures Climb

Communities across Jamaica are contending with a hotter-than-usual summer, and the Ministry of Health and Wellness is warning that prolonged exposure to extreme heat poses a serious public health threat. Officials are urging residents to take steps to prevent heat-related conditions, including heat stroke.

Minister of Health and Wellness Dr. Christopher Tufton said the current temperatures are consistent with the effects of climate change. Although heat-related illnesses have been reported in other countries, he noted that no such cases have been reported in Jamaica to date. Even so, he said vigilance remains essential.

"It's all the more reason why we have to be cautious," Tufton said. "We say to people, especially older persons and persons with chronic illnesses, that they must avoid direct sun heat. They must hydrate as much as possible." He added that not every drink supports proper hydration. "If you drink alcohol, an energy drink, or a strong sugary drink, the hydration effect is going to be sub-optimal."

Meteorologist Jovoy Saayers said the intense heat is being driven by above-average sea surface temperatures across the tropical Atlantic, combined with more frequent incursions of Saharan dust into the region. Those conditions are contributing to hotter days and warmer-than-normal readings across most of the island.

"We're expecting a general warmer-than-average temperature across most of the island," Saayers said. He pointed to a notable rise in overnight lows, noting that temperatures that would normally fall to around 22 to 24 degrees Celsius are now reaching 26 to 27 degrees, with some areas recording lows as high as 28 degrees.

Medical doctor Lucian Jones warned that extreme heat can lead to serious heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke, which can be fatal. He urged Jamaicans to stay indoors when possible, keep well hydrated, and limit children's outdoor activities to early morning or late evening hours.

"It's hot here in Jamaica. Lots of people are having to use air conditioners at nights just to get some relief," Jones said. "We need to be careful—just as careful as they are warning people now in Western Europe. Not because we live in a tropical country and we are accustomed to heat can we take it lightly. People can get heat stroke. We need to be well hydrated and stay out of the sun, especially those labourers who work outside."