Extreme Temperature-Related Deaths in the US Could Triple by 2036

A new study forecasts a dramatic rise in temperature-related fatalities, with minority and elderly populations most at risk.

Researchers predict temperature-related deaths in the US could increase from 8,249 annually to between 19,349 and 26,574 by mid-century, depending on greenhouse gas emissions.
The study highlights that extreme heat will become the dominant cause of temperature-related deaths, surpassing the decline in cold-related fatalities.
Older adults and minority communities, particularly Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black populations, are projected to face the highest increases in mortality rates.
Urban areas are expected to experience a more significant rise in deaths due to the urban heat island effect and limited access to cooling resources.
The findings underscore the importance of reducing emissions and implementing targeted interventions to protect vulnerable populations from the impacts of climate change.