First 2022 heatwave death reported in Dallas

The first heatwave-related death this year occurred on Thursday in Dallas, Texas, the county's Department of Health and Human Services (DCHHS) confirmed.

Authorities said the victim was a 66-year-old woman who resided in Dallas and also had other health problems, Telemundo reported.

"We are very sad to report our first heat-related death this season. We are experiencing extreme heat this season, and this is again a reminder of the importance of taking precautions," said Dr. Philip Huang, director of DCHHS.

"It is necessary to constantly hydrate and limit time outdoors to protect against the intense heat," Huang added. 

The DCHHS statement adds that for privacy and confidentiality reasons, it does not share personal information about victims.

Dallas County has already received at least 100 reports of people suffocating in the heat and requiring medical attention, DCHHS spokesman Cristian Grisales told Univision.

The statement also noted that those who do not have air conditioning in their homes in Texas, may be eligible for a window unit (AC) by calling 214-819-1976.

For several days now, Texas state officials have been asking residents to conserve water as drought conditions and extreme heat could create shortages in the region.

The North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) asked residents to "immediately" reduce their water usage, specifically outdoors. 

Temperatures in Texas rose dramatically this summer, with Dallas and Fort Worth expected to reach 110 degrees for several days this week.