Where It Occurs:
All states, but most severe and prolonged in the Southwest, Southern Plains, and Southeast. Urban areas experience intensified heat due to the "heat island effect."

Key Risks:
Heat exhaustion, heat stroke, dehydration, cardiovascular stress, and increased mortality especially among elderly, young children, and those with chronic health conditions.

Before Heat Season:

• Ensure air conditioning is working or identify cooling centers in your area

• Install weather stripping and window treatments to keep heat out

• Know the signs of heat-related illness

• Identify vulnerable people in your network who may need assistance

During Extreme Heat:

• Stay in air-conditioned spaces as much as possible

• Drink plenty of water even if not thirsty (avoid alcohol and caffeine)

• Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat hours (10 AM - 4 PM)

• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing

• Never leave children or pets in vehicles

• Check on at-risk neighbors and family members

• Use fans only when temperature is below 95°F (above that, fans increase heat stress)

After Extreme Heat:

• Continue hydrating

• Monitor for delayed symptoms of heat illness

• Assess vulnerable community members

Resources:

• CDC Extreme Heat: cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat

• NOAA Heat Index: weather.gov/safety/heat-index

• Ready.gov Extreme Heat: ready.gov/heat