Extreme Heat: Protecting Our Communities
Summer is here, and so is the heat. Due to climate change, the warm season is longer, hotter, and more deadly. More people die from heat exposure than any other climate weather event (ClimateRx). Heat exposure is extremely dangerous, especially for vulnerable people particularly the elderly, those without air conditioning, and outdoor workers. It is essential for all of us to be knowledgeable about the impacts of heat on our health, and to take action to protect ourselves and our communities.
Extreme heat, sometimes called a heat wave, is based on heat plus humidity. On average, it is when the affected area is achieving or surpassing a consistent heat index of 95˚F (EPA). Extreme heat and high humidity interfere with our body’s ability to sweat and regulate our body temperature. Some signs of the effects of extreme heat are: heavy sweating, dizziness, headaches, blurred vision, tiredness/weakness, muscle cramps, nausea, confusion, chills, and even fainting. If you, or anyone you know experiences these symptoms, get out of the heat and into a shaded or air conditioned area, take a cool shower or bath, apply ice towels, and use a fan. With vulnerable people, seek medical help. It is also very important to stay hydrated, to alleviate the symptoms, and also to prevent heat exhaustion altogether.
Communities of faith are uniquely positioned to help protect our communities from the effects of extreme heat by acting as heat refuge centers. By simply opening our doors for people to cool off, rest, and have a cold drink will save lives.
Rev. Katie Saxton of the Arizona Faith Network recently spoke at ecoAmerica’s Global Heat Action Day on the impact congregations can have on their local communities, and asked that congregations take action. She said that congregations are called to help protect their communities from extreme heat for the following reasons:
- LOCATION – Faith communities are in every neighborhood.
- TRUST – Houses of Worship have the trust of their communities.
- SPACE – Congregations usually have extra space.
- MORAL OBLIGATION – We are called to care for the most vulnerable.
Extreme heat is a serious issue. Let’s work together to educate our communities and take action to protect them. For more extreme heat resources, go to One Home One Future.
About the Authors:
Rev. Carol Devine, Director, Blessed Tomorrow
Kate Summers, Blessed Tomorrow Faith + Climate Associate
Eric Márquez, Program Specialist, ecoAmerica
Additional Resources:
Watch the American Climate Leadership Awards 2025
Join the Campaign: One Home One Future
Mental Health and Our Changing Climate: Children and Youth Report 2023
This article was both informative and inspiring—great job!