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Why the Government Lets Extreme Heat Get Away With Murder

Climate Change and Heat-Related Deaths

Extreme heat is a silent killer, claiming more lives each year than hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes combined. Yet, it often receives less attention and action from policymakers. In the United States, for example, heat-related deaths have increased by more than 50% since the 1990s. And as climate change continues to drive up temperatures, this trend is only expected to worsen.

The Government's Role

The government has a critical role to play in protecting its citizens from extreme heat. This includes providing early warning systems, cooling centers, and other resources to help people stay safe. It also includes investing in research to better understand the health impacts of heat and developing strategies to mitigate its effects.

Policy Failures

Unfortunately, the government has often failed to adequately address the threat of extreme heat. In many cases, policies have actually made the problem worse. For example, the deregulation of the energy industry has led to increased air pollution, which contributes to heat island effects.

The Cost of Inaction

The government's inaction on extreme heat is costing lives and money. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that heat-related deaths in the United States cost $1.6 billion in lost productivity and medical expenses each year. And the economic costs of extreme heat are only expected to increase as temperatures continue to rise.

A Call to Action

The government must do more to protect its citizens from extreme heat. This includes investing in research, developing mitigation strategies, and providing resources to help people stay safe. By taking action now, the government can prevent thousands of deaths and save billions of dollars in economic costs.

Recommendations for Action

The following are some specific recommendations for action that the government can take to address the threat of extreme heat:

Conclusion

Extreme heat is a serious threat to public health and safety. The government must do more to protect its citizens from this growing problem. By investing in research, developing mitigation strategies, and providing resources to help people stay safe, the government can prevent thousands of deaths and save billions of dollars in economic costs.