The temperatures up to 40°C in Guatemalareported by the Insivumehincrease the risk of heatstrokea medical emergency that can affect people and pets, so authorities call for prevention and action in time at the first symptoms.
High temperatures mainly impact the north, east and the Pacific coast, where the thermal sensation increases during the day. This scenario increases health risks, especially in children, older adults and people with chronic diseases.
Institutions such as the IGSS and Conred warn that the extreme heat It can cause severe dehydration, vital organ failure, and serious complications if preventive measures are not taken.
High temperatures increase risks in the country
He heatstroke occurs when the body loses its ability to regulate temperature after prolonged exposure to the sun or during intense physical activity in hot environments. This condition can raise body temperature above 40°Caffecting vital organs.
🌞 It is important to take preventive measures against high temperatures.
We invite you to share these recommendations with your family and friends 👇
🏛️ #XLegislature pic.twitter.com/GzDlrkyje3
— Guatemala Congress (@CongresoGuate) April 29, 2026
“Children and older adults are the most vulnerable to experiencing decompensation due to sunstroke or heat stroke,” explained Dr. Mynor Mejía, from the IGSS.
Warning symptoms of heat stroke
Recognizing the signs in time allows you to act quickly. Among the main symptoms are:
- Red or dry skin
- Excessive sweating or no sweat
- Dizziness, weakness and headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Confusion or loss of consciousness
- Rapid pulse and rapid breathing
What to do and how to act in an emergency
Given the suspicion of a heatstrokeyou must act immediately:
- Move the person or pet to a cool or shady place
- Remove excess clothing
- Apply cold compresses to head and body
- Offer water in small sips if conscious
- Seek immediate medical or veterinary attention
Heat can affect us more than we think!
Here are some recommendations to relieve discomfort caused by heat:
➡️ Stay hydrated: drink enough water throughout the day.
➡️ Avoid direct sun: seek shade or wear a hat and sunscreen. pic.twitter.com/CLn5Y9KRZR— CONRED (@ConredGuatemala) May 1, 2026
Recommendations: what to wear and what to avoid during extreme heat
To reduce risks During high temperatures, authorities recommend:
What to use:
- Light clothing and light colors
- Hat or cap
- Sun block
- Water for constant hydration
What to avoid:
- Direct exposure to the sun between 10:00 and 16:00
- Intense physical activity in the hottest hours
- Stay inside closed vehicles
- Consumption of alcohol or caffeinated beverages
Pets are also at risk from the heat
He extreme heat It also affects dogs and cats, which can suffer heatstroke if they are not adequately protected.
How to prevent it in pets:
- Keep clean, fresh water available
- Avoid walks during the hottest hours
- Provide shade or ventilated spaces
- Do not leave them inside vehicles
- Avoid hot surfaces
What to do if you have symptoms:
- Take them to a cool place
- Wet your body with water (not ice cold)
- Offer water in small amounts
- Go to the vet immediately
Due to the high temperatures, it is important to take measures to protect our pets, recognize the symptoms in time and act immediately to protect their lives. ☀️🐾 pic.twitter.com/0m2T1yvbKq
— MAGA Guatemala (@MagaGuatemala) April 29, 2026
Climatic context: heat will persist in Guatemala
He Insivumeh foresees that high temperatures will continue during the first days of May, with values between 35°C and 41°C in various regions of the country. Although there could be scattered rains, the warm atmosphere will persist.
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