Coalition Urges FEMA to Recognize Extreme Heat and Wildfire Smoke as Major Disasters

Environmental, labor, and health groups seek federal aid to combat rising climate threats impacting millions of Americans.

Petition filed to include extreme heat and wildfire smoke in FEMA's major disaster list.
Recognition would unlock federal funds for cooling centers, air filtration, and emergency services.
Extreme heat kills more Americans annually than hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes combined.
Labor groups push for workplace protections against heat-related illnesses and deaths.
FEMA's acceptance of the petition could lead to new federal regulations and resources.