Wren | Actions
Impact
Medium impact
Cost
Affordable
Time
Moderate
Climate change is linked to an increased frequency and intensity of extreme heat events. As greenhouse gas emissions accumulate in the atmosphere, temperatures rise. Other factors such as changing weather patterns and increased urbanization also exacerbate heat issues. By understanding this risk, individuals and communities can better prepare for more severe weather events.
Find out if you live in a heat risk area
Certain parts of the world are more susceptible to heat risk due to their proximity to the equator, weather patterns, urban density, or landscapes. You can research previous temperatures and changing weather patterns for your area to determine whether you may be at risk.
Check out your local weather forecast to determine your immediate or upcoming exposure to heat. Resources like the HeatRisk tool from the United States National Weather Service or Weather Maps from National Resources Canada can provide cross-country reports.
Image sourced from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
Evaluate local preparedness
As climate change makes natural disasters more severe and frequent, many people are finding themselves exposed to unfamiliar threats. Preparation can be the difference between life and death.
Take the quiz: Are you prepared for a climate disaster?
Ask if your community has climate disaster resilience planning.
Take precautions
Plan how you'll keep cool by implementing home solutions like window shades and air conditioning units, or making a list of temperature-regulated public spaces. Consider how you'll take care of children, pets, or elderly relatives during high heat, and familiarize yourself with the signs of heat-related illnesses.
Check out the article below from Ready.gov for more preparation tips, and refer to your local safety departments for relevant information.