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Also known as Canícula, The hottest days of the year are right around the corner for Quintana Roo. Here’s what to expect and some helpful ways to beat the heat!
What is ‘Canícula’?
Canícula, which many call “The dog days” are the hot, sultry days of summer. Typically lasting 40 days where temperatures are known to rise over 30 degrees Celsius. Creating some really hot and muggy days for residents and travelers. The overall probability of rain decreases while your thirst for a cold margarita or cerveza increases!
Where does the name Canícula come from?
The name dog days is attributed to the belief that the star Sirius, which is part of the constellation Can Mayor a.k.a Canícula. Sirius is known as the “dog star” and is by far one of the brightest stars in the night sky. It became known as the forerunner to the annual flood of the Nile. Greek poets even wrote about the belief that the return of this bright star was responsible for bringing heat and fever with its presence. Throughout history, this season which brings extreme heat has been given the nickname Canícula – The dog days of summer.
Local meteorologist Luis Antonio Morales Ocaña forecasts an even hotter and even longer period this year. Typically Canicula begins between July 15 and 20, lasting until August. This year he predicts it could last until September. Last year, high temperature records were broke in Playa del Carmen with 36 degrees Celsius highs.
“With global warming, records are broken annually. If we look at weather graphs that we keep as statistics, temperatures are rising. They have not decreased. They continue to increase, something that is happening every year all over the world and we are not the exception,” he said.
Signs of heatstroke to look out for:
- High body temperature. A core body temperature of 104 F (40 C) or higher
- Altered mental state or behavior. Confusion, agitation, slurred speech, irritability, delirium, seizures.
- Alteration in sweating. In heat stroke brought on by hot weather, your skin will feel hot and dry to the touch. However, in heat stroke brought on by strenuous exercise, your skin may feel dry or slightly moist.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Red, flushed skin.
- Rapid and shallow breathing.
- Heart racing or palpating.
- Headaches.
It is important to be diligent while venturing out in these extreme heats. Be sure to take precautions while still having a blast on your holiday!
Ways to beat the heat:
- Drink plenty of water and electrolytes
- Wear cool, light colored clothing
- Schedule your tours during the cooler hours of the day
- Limit your alcohol consumption
- If you get too hot and feel heat stroke symptoms coming on – cool yourself down by soaking your head, armpits, groin and other areas of heat on your body with cold water.
- Seek shade – get yourself out of direct sunlight
- Wear sunscreen to protect yourself from high UV rays
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