How to Stay Safe During Extreme Heat Waves and Sweltering Summer Temperatures
A hotter-than-normal summer is forecast for 2026, with extreme heat, heat domes, and a heightened risk of heat-related illnesses. In Europe, an intense heat wave has led to at least 40 drowning deaths in France as people attempted to escape the heat by swimming in lakes and canals.
In the US, over 700 people die from extreme heat annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Federal Emergency Management Agency emphasizes the importance of understanding how heat affects the body, as it can cause various conditions.
Extreme heat and humidity hinder the body's ability to cool itself, making it crucial to recognize the signs of excessive heat exposure and know how to treat heat-related illnesses. The National Weather Service warns that extreme heat and humidity will increase the potential for heat-related illnesses, particularly for those engaging in outdoor activities.
The CDC identifies several factors that determine a person's ability to cool off in hot weather, including age, weight, fever, dehydration, heart disease, and sunburn. Additionally, alcohol and drug use can contribute to heat illness. While anyone can be affected, certain groups are at greater risk, including the elderly, young children, and people with pre-existing medical conditions. Even young and healthy individuals can develop heat illness if they are active in hot weather, according to the CDC.
In the US, over 700 people die from extreme heat annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Federal Emergency Management Agency emphasizes the importance of understanding how heat affects the body, as it can cause various conditions.
Extreme heat and humidity hinder the body's ability to cool itself, making it crucial to recognize the signs of excessive heat exposure and know how to treat heat-related illnesses. The National Weather Service warns that extreme heat and humidity will increase the potential for heat-related illnesses, particularly for those engaging in outdoor activities.
The CDC identifies several factors that determine a person's ability to cool off in hot weather, including age, weight, fever, dehydration, heart disease, and sunburn. Additionally, alcohol and drug use can contribute to heat illness. While anyone can be affected, certain groups are at greater risk, including the elderly, young children, and people with pre-existing medical conditions. Even young and healthy individuals can develop heat illness if they are active in hot weather, according to the CDC.
News, Global