Heat's Impact: Health & Economy

Understand the critical health risks and economic consequences posed by extreme heat, and effective mitigation strategies.

The top 3

Top Causes of Heat-Related Fatalities: Extreme heat causes an average of 1,220 deaths annually in the United States, with heat stroke being the most severe and life-threatening heat-related illness. Factors increasing risk include high humidity, old age, infancy, chronic illnesses, obesity, and certain medications.
Industries Most Affected by Extreme Heat: Outdoor industries such as construction, agriculture, and landscaping face some of the highest risks for heat stress, accounting for a significant portion of heat-related worker deaths. Indoor workplaces like bakeries, kitchens, manufacturing plants, and warehouses also pose substantial risks due to heat-generating equipment and poor ventilation.
Three Urban Heat Island Solutions: Cities combat urban heat islands through strategies like increasing green spaces with trees and vegetation, which provide shade and cool surfaces through evapotranspiration. Using cool pavements and reflective roofing materials helps reflect sunlight and absorb less heat. Implementing smart growth and compact development can also reduce overall heat absorption by minimizing sprawling, impervious surfaces.