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As summer approaches, Los Angeles public health officials are urging residents to prepare for prolonged periods of extreme heat, which pose serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations.
In 2023, the U.S. recorded 2,325 heat-related deaths, marking a substantial rise in fatalities linked to high temperatures. Heat-related illnesses range from mild heat cramps to life-threatening heatstroke.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke, characterized by a body temperature of 103°F or higher, hot and dry skin, rapid pulse, confusion, and loss of consciousness.
Infants and young children, adults over 65, people with chronic illnesses, and individuals taking medications that impair temperature regulation are at the highest risk during heat events. People with cardiovascular issues or who rely on diuretics or beta-blockers may be especially sensitive to high temperatures.
Aaron Bernstein, interim director of the CDC’s National Center for Environmental Health, noted many medications used to treat high blood pressure can also make people more sensitive to heat.
To stay safe during extreme heat, health officials recommend people to:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, even if you do not feel thirsty.
- Wear Appropriate Clothing: Opt for lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothes.
- Limit Outdoor Activities: Schedule strenuous activities for cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening.
- Seek Air-Conditioned Environments: Spend time in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible.
- Use Cooling Centers: Utilize public cooling centers if home air conditioning is unavailable.
- Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Regularly monitor family, friends, and neighbors who are at higher risk.
- Never Leave Children or Pets in Vehicles: Temperatures inside cars can rise rapidly to dangerous levels.
The CDC’s Heat & Health Tracker provides real-time, location-specific data to help residents assess risks and plan accordingly.
The urban heat island effect in L.A. — where concrete and asphalt surfaces retain heat — contributes to higher temperatures, particularly in low-income neighborhoods that often lack shade and cooling systems. A study by Caltech found lower-income neighborhoods in L.A. County can experience surface temperatures up to 36°F higher than wealthier areas.
Jo Tavares, director of the California Center for Climate Change Education, emphasized individuals working outdoors or living in inadequately cooled apartments are most affected by heat waves.
Federal efforts have also addressed workplace safety during heat events. Former President Joe Biden directed the Department of Labor to issue a heat hazard alert, reminding employers of their responsibilities. The alert stated employers have a legal and moral responsibility not to assign work in high-heat conditions without protections in place for workers.
With extreme heat events expected to intensify due to climate change, public health experts stress the need for proactive measures. Residents are encouraged to follow safety guidelines, stay alert to public advisories, and help protect those most vulnerable during high heat periods.
