Dominican Republic faces record summer heat, worsening eye discomfort

The Dominican Republic is experiencing its hottest period of the year, with temperatures reaching up to 39.9 °C and heat‑index values exceeding 40 °C, according to the Dominican Institute of Meteorology (INDOMET). The extreme heat is driven by intense solar radiation, warm southeast winds, high humidity and occasional Saharan dust, which together limit cloud formation and trap heat. The most affected regions are the Northwest, Southwest and the Cibao valleys, while the critical window for sun exposure is between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Ophthalmologist Cristal Manzanillo warned that the combination of high temperatures, air‑conditioning, wind, UV exposure and prolonged screen use intensifies dry‑eye symptoms such as burning, redness, gritty feeling and blurred vision. She advises using sunglasses with UV protection, taking screen breaks, avoiding direct airflow on the face, and applying artificial tears as needed, recommending an eye exam for persistent cases.