Extreme heat events in Minnesota are already occurring and expected to become more common, more severe, and longer-lasting as our climate changes. The following Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) tip sheet identifies steps you can take to prevent heat-related illnesses - and how to help your families, friends, and neighbors stay safe too.
Extreme Heat Tip Sheet (PDF)
Heat is a significant threat to public health in the United States. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), heat has claimed more lives on average over the past ten years than any other severe weather event. (NOAA, National Hazard Statistics) By the end of the 21st Century, heat-related deaths could more than triple in the U.S. (NRDC, Killer Summer Heat: Projected Death Toll from rising Temperatures in America Due to Climate Change)
Populations at Risk
The populations in Minnesota most at-risk for negative health outcomes from extreme heat include, but are not limited to:
- Children under 5, people age 15-34, adults age 65+, especially those living along
- People with chronic medical conditions, like heart disease or high blood pressure
- People of all ages who are doing extended or heavy physical activity, like playing sports or working outdoors
- People living at or below the poverty line
- People experiencing homelessness.