On Monday, the Biden administration launched a new online tool called HeatRisk to help keep people safe from extreme heat. This interactive map can be found on the websites of both the National Weather Service and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The HeatRisk map is color-coded to indicate the risk of heat-related health impacts, with green representing little to no risk and magenta highlighting areas of extreme heat health impacts. Users can navigate through the map to view current heat conditions and a forecast for the next few days.
During a press conference on Monday, CDC Director Mandy Cohen emphasized that while heat can have a negative impact on health, heat-related illness and death are preventable. She urged individuals to take precautions when experiencing extreme heat, such as staying hydrated, wearing loose clothing, and seeking shade or air conditioning when possible.
The HeatRisk map is intended to raise awareness about the dangers of extreme heat and help individuals make informed decisions to protect their well-being. It is also an important tool for public health officials who can use it to identify areas where additional resources may be needed to address heat-related health concerns.