Americans all over the country are suffering in extreme heat while the United States infrastructure can't provide enough support for them. In July 2025 alone, over seventeen million people in the U.S. endured temperatures over 100 degrees F. Older adults, outdoor workers, and low-income families can be more likely to suffer from heat stress than the average person. This is tangible evidence of a rising crisis in public health and equity.
Heat waves are the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S. According to the Reuters Report, the overload of people blasting the AC overwhelmed the power grid, sending the energy demand skyrocketing. This severely impacts families of the lower class and vulnerable neighborhoods.
Older adults who live alone are particularly vulnerable. According to the CDC, they are more susceptible to heat-related health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, or kidney problems. As people age, their bodies struggle to regulate their body temperature in extreme heat.
Outdoor workers such as delivery drivers, farm workers, and construction crews are more at risk due to constant sunlight exposure. Without regular breaks, proper hydration, and consistent shade, outdoor workers are more prone to suffering from Occupational Heat Stress.
Low-income families face heat issues just by being in their own homes. Their houses can often be poorly insulated and without AC. Lower-income urban neighborhoods tend to be heat islands. To adapt, cities like New York promote green infrastructure and reflective roofs through the Cool Roofs Program. Public health experts argue that cooling centers can be a crucial addition to our country's infrastructure.