Authorities raise awareness about extreme heat in Las Vegas, Nevada this summer

Las Vegas heat warning.

Last year, 300 people in the area died due to heat-related illnesses.

Concerns are rising as summer approaches.

Authorities in Las Vegas, Nevada, have issued a warning about the brutal heat wave expected in the coming summer months.

On the morning of Thursday, May 15, 2024 — under the harsh rays of the sun — authorities held a press conference about the extreme heat.

Heat related illnesses are a major concern.

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PHOTO: MundoNOW

Las Vegas heat warning for this summer

PHOTO: Clark County

Clark County Commissioner Marilyn Kirkpatrick addressed the community in Las Vegas and surrounding cities.

«We want to send this message as soon as possible… because many new people have moved to Clark County,» said Kirkpatrick.

The commissioner explained that, although it may seem obvious, «we want to remind you what it means to live in the Nevada desert.»

«Living in the desert means staying hydrated all the time,» Commissioner Kirkpatrick told the media in Las Vegas.

Beat the Heat SNV

PHOTO: Southern Nevada Health District

The warning is serious, as more than 300 people died from heat-related conditions in 2023.

Dan Berc, from the National Weather Service (NWS) in Las Vegas, Nevada, warned of the impending heat.

Temperatures in southern Nevada could reach up to 115 degrees Fahrenheit (45 degrees Celsius) for several days.

«Make sure to drink water constantly, even if you are inside your homes or cars,» said Commissioner Kirkpatrick.

Children and the elderly are the most vulnerable

PHOTO: City of Las Vegas

For the daytime hours of the summer, the commissioner advised that «it may not be a good idea to walk your pets,» as the heat from the streets can burn their paws.

Those most susceptible to heat stroke are the elderly and children, so authorities have asked to watch them carefully.

«A reminder… don’t forget to apply sunscreen if you are spending many hours in the pools,» Commissioner Kirkpatrick told parents.

The NWS noted that by 8:00 a.m. in the summer, temperatures could already reach up to 96 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pregnant women and the elderly are vulnerable

PHOTO: Southern Nevada Health District

Fermín Castillo Leguen, Chief Medical Officer of the Southern Nevada Health District, joined the press conference to discuss heat-related illnesses.

«Anyone can be affected by heat waves… but the most vulnerable are our elderly, people with chronic diseases, or mental health issues,» explained Castillo Leguen.

Pregnant women can also be affected by extreme heat if they are not well hydrated or sheltered in the shade.

Though it may seem obvious, Dr. Castillo Leguen stressed that no children or pets be left in a car for any reason during the summer.

Hispanic workers should take precautions

PHOTO: Southern Nevada Health District

There are several recommendations for Hispanic workers in construction, landscaping and delivery services.

Dr. Castillo Leguen, an immigrant from Cuba, recounted his early experiences with heat stroke in Las Vegas, Nevada, which nearly caused him to faint.

«Outdoor workers are more likely to dehydrate and suffer from heat-related illnesses,» warned the Southern Nevada Health District.

If work must be done under the sun, authorities advise people to «wear a wide-brimmed hat, loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing.»