The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a heat warning for 61 municipalities in Puerto Rico on Tuesday, effective from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The organization reported that temperatures will reach up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, with a heat index of up to 103 degrees Fahrenheit.
The NWS warned of a high risk of heat-related illnesses in coastal and urban areas, including Culebra and Vieques. The affected municipalities include Cabo Rojo, Aguada, Toa Baja, and 58 others.
The NWS advised taking measures to prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke, such as drinking plenty of fluids, staying in air-conditioned rooms, and avoiding direct sun exposure. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) define heat exhaustion as a condition caused by prolonged exposure to heat, while heat stroke is a more severe medical emergency that can lead to organ damage and death if not treated promptly.