Summer 2025: Another Scorcher as Heat Deaths Surpass Hurricanes

Heat deaths now outpace hurricanes. Energy costs soar as federal support wanes. Stakeholders unite to protect vulnerable populations.

, and Administrator

2025 October 4 . 10:34 AM

2 min read

On the right there are car, plants, current pole, grass and soil. On the left there are plants,... — On the right there are car, plants, current pole, grass and soil. On the left there are plants, flowers, trees, fencing, house and a pole. Sky is sunny.

Summer 2025: Another Scorcher as Heat Deaths Surpass Hurricanes

This summer is shaping up to be another scorcher, with temperatures potentially reaching record highs. Extreme heat is now the leading weather-related cause of death in the US, surpassing hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes combined. Meanwhile, energy costs and insecurity are rising, and federal support for heat protection is waning.

Last year was the hottest on record, and this year is on track to be the second or third. Despite a cooler June and July in California, a major heat wave struck the East Coast in July. The planet's average surface temperature has risen by about two degrees since the late 19th century, with most of the warming occurring in the last 40 years.

Addressing this issue involves various stakeholders. Occupational health and safety authorities are focusing on heat protection measures for vulnerable sectors like agriculture and construction. Event organizers and teams at major venues like the Circuit of the Americas are managing safety and logistics impacts. Scientific experts like Prof. Dr. Aaron Sterniczky are providing heat protection knowledge through public talks. Political leaders and local government officials are contributing through climate adaptation policies and emergency responses.

AC, responsible for around 3% of global greenhouse gases, is also essential for protecting people from heat stroke. However, nearly a quarter of all US homes experienced energy insecurity in 2020, with low-income households spending roughly 10% of their income on energy. Only 21 states and Washington, D.C. have policies that prevent utilities from shutting off power during summer months, compared to 40 states and D.C. for winter months. Household electric bills are up 10% nationally since Trump took office, with overall electric bills expected to increase 6.2% from last year.

As temperatures rise, so do the risks and costs for Americans. Coordinated efforts from various stakeholders are crucial to protect vulnerable populations and adapt to our warming climate. Meanwhile, federal support for heat protection programs has decreased, leaving many Americans at risk.