Two more heat-related deaths in Md.

Maryland health officials are reporting two more heat-related deaths, bringing the total for the year to 19.

Department of Health and Mental Hygiene spokesman David Paulson said Thursday that both deaths occurred early last week. He says the residents of Anne Arundel and Somerset counties both suffered from heart disease and were found in homes without air conditioning.

Paulson says hospitals have reported 1,274 heat-related or dehydration visits from July 1 to Tuesday.

The state had six heat-related deaths last year, a total kept down by a cool summer. In 2005, the state had a record 48 deaths.

High temperatures Thursday prompted Baltimore officials to opening cooling centers in the city. Paulson says some counties may also open cooling centers.

-- Associated Press