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1 [1] (January 2, 2025)

handle is hein.crs/goverwa0001 and id is 1 raw text is: Congressional Research Service Informing the legislative debate since 1914 0 Updated January 2, 2025 Emergency Federal Assistance for Extreme Heat: An Overview Introduction In recent years, parts of the United States have experienced a record number of episodes of extreme heat. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) had previously reported that the summer of 2023 was the hottest summer-and 2023 the hottest year-recorded. Summer 2024 has since surpassed this record, and the agency reported that August 2024 was the hottest month on record (global records began in 1880). Government authorities and scientific organizations expect the United States to experience extreme heat episodes of greater frequency, duration, and intensity due to climate change, among other factors, with the International Panel on Climate Change reporting that it is virtually certain that hot extremes (including heatwaves) have become more frequent and more intense across most land regions since the 1950s. In the past several years, the executive branch has taken actions to respond to the threat that extreme heat poses to U.S. public health (see Table 1). Additionally, some Members of recent Congresses have introduced-but not passed-legislation to enhance certain federal authorities. Concerns persist that current federal and nonfederal resources and authorities are inadequate to protect against the risks of extreme heat. Congress faces a range of relevant questions, including what role the federal government should assume as communities prepare for and respond to extreme heat. Figure I. Extreme Heat in July, 2024 Source: NASA Earth Observatory Image, July 22, 2024. Effects on Human Health Many U.S. communities affected by extreme heat events report heat-related deaths, spikes in heat-related emergency room visits that overwhelm health care systems, and power supply strains, among other consequences. Socially vulnerable populations (including the elderly, children, pregnant women, unhoused persons, low-income individuals, and outdoor workers) face disproportionate risks. Heat-related deaths in the U.S. are increasing. In 2022, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 3,066 heat-related deaths occurred between 2018 and 2020 (averaging 767 per year). In 2023, the agency reported that 1,600 heat-related deaths occurred in 2021 alone. Other estimates are higher; one study indicated that heat-related deaths have steadily increased since 1999, with the highest number (2,325) in 2023. Heat-related death counts are generally understood to underestimate deaths linked to extreme heat, due to complications with diagnosis and reporting. Emergency Response Nonfederal Authorities and Efforts The CDC and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) identify several response measures that state, local, tribal, and territorial governments (SLTTs) and communities may undertake to protect residents and manage episodes of extreme heat, including * developing heat health action plans; * communicating risks to the public, * suspending outdoor events; * expanding medical surveillance of health effects; * increasing emergency medical staff; * outreach to vulnerable populations; * providing emergency energy assistance; and * opening cooling centers. One study on local governments indicates that 66% of responding officials expect residents to face heat-related illnesses, and 44% expect a heat-related power outage this year. Further, 73% of respondents had implemented at least one extreme heat response or mitigation strategy. Some have appointed Chief Heat Officers responsible for overseeing extreme heat-related activities. Others have adopted emergency protocols for businesses, schools, and other facilities to protect individuals during extreme heat. Gaps in Available Nonfederal Authorities Despite some of the recent initiatives discussed above, most states do not have specific laws, standards, or plans addressing extreme heat. Identified gaps or disparities in relevant state and local emergency procedures and authorities include a lack of (1) emergency response plans for extreme heat, (2) identified office responsible for extreme heat emergency response, (3) insurance or other means to cover costs incurred, (4) focus on heat safety, literacy, and standards, and (5) consistent or coherent energy disconnection policies (e.g., shutoff for nonpayment) across state and local governments.

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