"Beat the Heat: Join Us for Global Heat Action Day to Protect Our Communities!"

Rising Temperatures: A Public Health Emergency

As summer approaches, communities across the United States are bracing for rising temperatures that pose significant health risks. Extreme heat has emerged as the most dangerous climate-related threat, affecting vulnerable populations disproportionately. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the past decade has seen a marked increase in heatwaves, with 2022 recording some of the highest temperatures on record.

The Impact of Extreme Heat

Extreme heat is more than just uncomfortable; it is a public health emergency that can lead to heat-related illnesses and fatalities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that thousands of deaths occur annually due to heat exposure, particularly among lower-income communities, outdoor workers, BIPOC individuals, the elderly, children, and pregnant people. A 2021 study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that neighborhoods with less tree canopy and inadequate housing conditions are at a higher risk for heat-related health issues.

Addressing the Crisis

Recognizing the urgency of this issue, organizations are mobilizing to address the risks associated with extreme heat. Global Heat Action Day, scheduled for June 2, 2025, serves as a pivotal moment for communities to come together and share effective solutions. The American Public Health Association (APHA) is collaborating with ecoAmerica to host a webinar titled "Local Solutions to Protect Communities." This event will feature health professionals, faith leaders, and community advocates who are actively working on the frontlines to combat the effects of extreme heat.

The webinar will take place at 3 PM ET / 12 PM PT and aims to empower participants with knowledge and resources to initiate or enhance heat resilience initiatives in their communities. Speakers include Ben Fulgencio-Turner from Climate for Health, Shweta Arya from APHA, Nathaniel Matthews-Trigg from Americares, and Rev. Katie Sexton from the Arizona Faith Network.

Local Solutions for a Global Problem

The challenges posed by extreme heat are compounded by factors such as inadequate access to cooling resources, chronic health conditions, and socio-economic disparities. Effective solutions often originate at the local level, where community leaders can tailor strategies to meet specific needs. Initiatives may include increasing green spaces, improving housing conditions, and providing access to cooling centers.

For health professionals, community leaders, and policymakers, this event offers an opportunity to learn from successful local initiatives and connect with others working at the intersection of climate, health, and equity. Participants will be encouraged to share their experiences and collaborate on strategies to build more resilient communities.

A Call to Action

As we face the escalating threat of extreme heat, it is crucial to recognize that every death from heat exposure is preventable. By coming together on Global Heat Action Day, communities can take significant steps toward protecting their most vulnerable members and fostering a healthier, more equitable future.

To participate in the webinar and learn more about local solutions to combat extreme heat, register here.

Additional Resources

For those interested in further exploring the intersection of climate and health, the following resources are available:

• Watch the American Climate Leadership Awards 2025
• Join ClimateRx
• Mental Health and Our Changing Climate: Children and Youth Report 2023
• Climate for Health Ambassador Training
• Climate for Health Resources

Together, we can take meaningful action against the rising threat of extreme heat and protect our communities for generations to come.