“Surviving the Heat: Understanding the Impact of Extreme Heat Events in the U.S.”

Extreme heat events in the United States have long been a threat to public health, with cities like St. Louis, Philadelphia, Chicago, and Cincinnati experiencing significant increases in death rates during heat waves. These deaths are not only caused by heat stroke and related conditions but also by cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and cerebrovascular disease. In addition, heat waves lead to higher hospital admissions for cardiovascular, kidney, and respiratory disorders. Climate projections suggest that extreme heat events will become more frequent and intense in the coming decades.

While improved forecasting, early warnings, and increased access to air conditioning have helped reduce heat-related illness and death risks in recent years, extreme heat events continue to be a significant cause of preventable deaths across the country. Urban heat islands, along with factors like aging and urbanization, are expected to increase the vulnerability of urban populations to heat-related health impacts in the future.

Although milder winters resulting from a warming climate may reduce illness, injuries, and deaths associated with cold and snow, vulnerability to winter weather depends on various non-climate factors such as housing, age, and baseline health. While climate change may decrease deaths and injuries from extreme cold, it will not offset the rise in heat-related deaths.

To help communities prepare for extreme heat events, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers a variety of resources. These include information on preparing for winter storms, preventing cold temperature-related health problems, and staying safe during extreme heat. The CDC also provides a Heat & Health Tracker to explore how extreme heat affects different counties, populations at risk, and resources for response.

In conclusion, extreme heat events in the U.S. pose a significant threat to public health, and it is crucial for communities to take proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with these events. By staying informed and prepared, individuals and communities can better protect themselves from the adverse health effects of extreme heat.