Summary of Key Points
Recently, the mid-eastern United States has experienced extreme heat due to a phenomenon known as a “heat dome,” resulting in several deaths from the high temperatures, particularly in New York and New Jersey (3 deaths in New York and 29 in New Jersey). There has also been a surge in emergency room visits (379 cases of heat-related illnesses in New York over four days). Experts warn that extreme heat has become the “new normal,” and although cities have implemented measures to cope, their capacity to adapt is limited. The difficulty of tracking deaths caused by heat is significant, as it often exacerbates pre-existing health conditions. Vulnerable groups, such as outdoor workers and the elderly, are particularly at risk, and the WHO has provided specific protection recommendations.
I. The Deadly Impact of Heat: Shocking Death and Emergency Data
Extreme heat has directly led to numerous deaths, with emergency room visits reaching record levels:
- Death Cases: All three deceased in New York were at home without air conditioning; some of the 29 deceased in New Jersey were outdoors (on the streets or in vehicles).
- Emergency Room Surges: During the four days of extreme heat in New York, five major districts reported 379 cases of heat-related illnesses, including dehydration, heat exhaustion, and strokes.
- Other Regions: On National Day in Washington, hundreds of people received treatment at events on National Square (96 from the fire department, 289 from George Washington University, and 314 from health departments), with temperatures reaching 38.9°C.
II. The Challenge of Tracking Heat-Related Deaths: Is It More Than Just High Temperatures?
The number of heat-related deaths may be underestimated, as many deaths are indirectly caused by the heat:
- Primary Cause: High temperatures often worsen pre-existing health conditions, such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, rather than being the direct cause of death.
- Statistical Challenges: There is no global standard for determining “climate disaster-related deaths,” making it difficult to distinguish between deaths solely due to heat and those caused by a combination of heat and underlying health issues. Experts from Columbia University argue that this is not an exact science.
III. The New Normal: Will Extreme Heat Become More Common?
Experts believe that extreme heat has become the new normal, and although cities are taking steps to address it, there are limits to their ability to adapt:
- Definition of the New Normal: Extreme heat is no longer a rare event but occurs frequently.
- City Responses: Cities are extending the operating hours of air-conditioned public facilities, improving emergency response systems, and developers are considering climate change factors in their planning.
- Adaptation Limits: Despite preparations, some populations (such as those without access to air conditioning) will still face challenges, as the Earth’s temperature continues to rise, and adaptation capacity is not unlimited.
IV. High-Risk Groups: Who Is Most Vulnerable?
Both physiological and social factors determine who is most at risk:
- Groups Identified by the WHO: Outdoor workers, the elderly (with weaker thermoregulation), people living in poor-quality housing (with poor ventilation), and those without cooling facilities (without air conditioning).
- Data Support: From 2000-2004 to 2017-2021, deaths related to heat among people over 65 increased by 85%.
- Additional Factors from Traditional Chinese Medicine: People with conditions such as yin deficiency, obesity, excessive dampness, allergies, or immune issues are more susceptible due to weaker bodily regulation.
V. Practical Protection Guidelines: Simple Measures That Can Save Lives
The WHO has provided easy-to-follow recommendations for the general public:
- When Out: Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest times of the day (e.g., noon) and drink 2-3 liters of water daily.
- At Home: Close windows and blinds when outdoor temperatures are higher than indoor ones; use fans only when temperatures are below 40°C (fans can be harmful at higher temperatures).
- Absolute Precautions: Never leave children or animals in a vehicle, even for short periods, as it can be fatal.
This news report not only highlights the dangers of extreme heat but also addresses the underlying social issues (such as the vulnerability of those without air conditioning) and future trends (the new normal). It provides practical protection measures that are useful for non-professional readers.