Summary: A massive heat dome is moving eastward across the United States, endangering human health with an extended stretch of high temperatures. Comments below from Duke University heat and health expert Ashley Ward are available to use in your coverage.
Quotes:
“Start preparing immediately to reduce your heat exposure and that of vulnerable people in your community,” says Ashley Ward, director of the Heat Policy Innovation Hub at Duke University’s Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability. “This heat dome is hitting relatively early in this year’s heat season, so there are large numbers of people who haven’t yet acclimatized to high temperatures. That could make an already dangerous event even deadlier.”
“In areas where humidity is very high, overnight temperatures may remain high, intensifying the heat dome’s impacts on human health. If you must ration cooling in your home, consider prioritizing the bedroom so your body can recover from daytime exposures.”
“To combat heat’s effects on your body, it’s a good idea to combine multiple actions. In addition to staying hydrated and using air conditioning or fans, you can take cool showers and immerse your arms over your elbows or your feet over your ankles in cool water.”
“Those who are over 65, have underlying health conditions, are pregnant or who are unhoused or housing-insecure should take extra precautions, as should student-athletes and those who work in high-exposure settings — including the outdoors, warehouses and the food service industry.”
“Individuals and communities should prepare for potential impacts to the power grid as air conditioning use ramps up.”
Bio:
Ashley Ward directs the Heat Policy Innovation Hub at Duke University’s Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability. Ward focuses on engaging communities to identify and address issues related to climate change while helping them develop long-term, sustainable strategies relevant to their needs. (Watch a video op-ed with Ward here.)
For additional comment, contact Ashley Ward at:
ashley.ward2@duke.edu
Infographics for media use:
“Beat the Heat: Cooling Strategies to Stay Safe” (available in English and Spanish)
“Sustainable and Accessible Ways to Keep Cool”
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Media Contact
Braden Welborn
braden.welborn@duke.edu
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