INDOMET warns of extreme heat and a heat index exceeding 39 °C during the coming week

Santo Domingo. – The Dominican Institute of Meteorology (INDOMET) warned that between August 5 and 11, stifling heat conditions will persist across much of the national territory, with a high probability that the combination of maximum temperature and heat index will exceed 33 degrees Celsius for several consecutive days, and even surpass 39 °C in some locations.

According to the heat risk bulletin issued this Wednesday, the high temperatures will be favored by the warmest time of the year, the influence of the Atlantic high-pressure system, the effects of the El Niño phenomenon, which remains in a moderate phase, and an increase in the concentration of Saharan dust expected for this weekend and the first days of next week.

During the period between July 29 and August 4, the maximum temperatures recorded ranged between 37.2 °C and 39.8 °C. The highest value was reported in Santiago Rodríguez, with 39.8 °C on July 30, followed by Valverde, where 39.1 °C was reached on July 31. Temperatures of 38.7 °C were also recorded in Altamira, Puerto Plata; 38.0 °C in Jimaní, Independencia province; and 37.6 °C in Monte Cristi.

According to the report, the greatest risk of extreme heat will continue to be concentrated in the northwest region, especially in the Santiago Rodríguez and Valverde provinces. Likewise, a moderate to severe risk is expected for Independencia, mainly in the municipality of Jimaní, as well as for Monte Cristi.

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INDOMET explained that these conditions increase the risk of heat stress, which is why it urged the population to take preventive measures to avoid health complications associated with high temperatures.

Among the main recommendations are staying well hydrated, wearing light-colored and lightweight clothing, staying in cool places, and avoiding direct sun exposure between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.