The brutal September heat and humidity in South Florida is sending people of all ages to the hospital and urgent care clinics.
Just last week, 15 students in McArthur High School’s marching band reported being overcome by heat at an outdoor afterschool practice. Three of those students were transported to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.
“All the students have recovered,” said Cathleen Brennan, a communications officer for Broward County Public Schools. “The school’s principal is reviewing safety protocols with the band director to prevent similar issues in the future.”
Overheating is one of the most common and serious dangers in South Florida, a health concern that has become even more problematic this summer.
Thursday brought another day with the area under a heat advisory, warning that hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses. Daily advisories this month caution that “feels like” temperatures are as high as 111 degrees in the afternoon and the risk for fainting, dizziness, and vomiting rises along with the more severe condition known as heat stroke. With heat stroke, the body temperature typically rises above 104 degrees and can lead to loss of consciousness and even death if not treated immediately.