Heat Caused Record-High Rates of Health Emergencies in Some Parts of the U.S. Last Year

Last summer, the U.S. experienced its hottest season on record, leading to a surge in heat-related health emergencies across the country. According to data from the CDC, heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke, heat cramps, and sunburns accounted for a significantly larger portion of emergency department visits compared to previous years.

The rate of these emergencies surpassed previous peaks, with more than 300 heat-related incidents per 100,000 emergency department visits during the hottest months of 2023. This article by CNN delves into the alarming increase in heat-related risks, highlighting the need for proactive measures to address the escalating public health challenges posed by extreme heat events.