Extreme Heat

If you live in the United States, chances are you have experienced the extreme heat waves sweeping the nation. According to PBS, 220 Million Americans– roughly ⅔ of the country– are feeling the exhausting and dangerous effects of this extreme heat. “Extreme heat” refers to high temperatures over 90 degrees Fahrenheit which last for at least two days. 

Extreme heat is one of the most pressing and obvious signs of climate change. The Fifth National Climate Assessment, a government report that analyzes the impacts of climate change on the US, revealed that extreme weather events such as extreme heat have increased in severity, extent, and frequency. Last year, the U.S. last year saw a record number of heat waves since 1936.

Beyond disrupting our everyday routines of gardening, walking to the store, or spending time with loved ones outside, extreme heat poses large health threats, causing the most deaths of any weather-related hazard. However, Creation Justice Ministries has worked hard to compile safety information for living amidst extreme temperatures in our Heat and Health Resource, such as tips for preparedness and education, cooling station usage, and more.

 Resources 

The best way to cope with these heated times is by working together with our communities. Here are a few resources from Creation Justice Ministries and our partners that may help your community build heat preparedness and resilience:

Download our Heat and Health Resource to read Church action plans, learn how your individual community may be affected, delve into the overlap between systemic racism and extreme heat, and discover additional ways you and your community can come together to face the reality of rising temperatures.

  • Visit the Extreme Weather Resource Hub from our partners at Potential Energy Coalition to learn how best to communicate about heat events and other extreme weather.

  • Learn about climate risks nationwide, including heat stress, from the Union of Concerned Scientists’ Danger Season map.

  • Visit the Heat Policy Innovation Hub by the Duke University Nicholas Institute for background information about heat stress and accessible strategies for heat resilience in your community.

The climate crisis can feel overwhelming—but you are not alone. With preparation, prayer, and partnership, our congregations can be places of refuge and resilience. We hope these resources help you take meaningful next steps in protecting your community and honoring God’s creation.