Extreme Heat

Extreme heat is a dangerous weather condition that is becoming more common and severe as climate change warms the planet. It is the leading weather-related cause of death in the United States and a significant, and likely undercounted, cause of death worldwide. In addition to its health effects, extreme heat can damage roads, electrical wires and other infrastructure; stress energy systems as air conditioners draw more electricity; damage or kill crops and livestock; and contribute to natural disasters like droughts and wildfires.

There is no strict definition of extreme heat or a “heatwave.” The terms are used to describe periods that are much hotter than usual for the time and place where they happen.

Written By: SubjectToClimate Educators

SubjectToClimate is a free platform with teacher-designed lesson plans, curated resources, and professional development opportunities to enable all K-12 educators to easily integrate climate change into what they already teach.

Climate change and heatwaves

Climate change has led to about 1.8° F (1° C) of average global warming so far. We emphasize the word “average” because this slight rise in average temperatures can cause a much steeper rise in record highs and very hot days. In recent years, weather stations around the world are recording a growing number of extreme heat events and record-high temperatures.

Climate change is also making the world more humid on average. Hot, humid days don’t just feel muggier than dry days—they are also more dangerous. The human body cools itself by sweating, and if the air is too humid, sweat cannot evaporate and the body will keep getting hotter. This condition can quickly lead to fatal heat stroke for people who cannot get to a cooler place.

Written By: MIT Environmental Solutions Initiative

Founded in 2014, the Environmental Solutions Initiative (ESI) is MIT’s institute-wide effort to mobilize the substantial scientific, engineering, policy, and design capacity of the MIT community to contribute to addressing climate change and other environmental challenges of global import. ESI pursues multidisciplinary research, education, events, and partnerships to help move society toward an environmentally and socially sustainable future.