Extreme Heat Emerging as a ‘Public Health Crisis’

Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra recently highlighted the growing public health crisis caused by extreme heat, particularly during his visit to Phoenix, Arizona, where temperatures have soared into triple digits. Becerra emphasized that climate change is driving this crisis, with rising heat levels now posing a greater threat than traditional cold-weather emergencies.

 

He pointed out that extreme heat is responsible for numerous fatalities, with approximately 1,220 heat-related deaths occurring annually in the U.S. The Biden administration is responding by proposing new standards to protect workers from heat exposure, including mandatory rest breaks and access to shade and water. Read more from The Hill here.