Articles · Weather
Everything about Heat Wave
7 articles across NWS
Prolonged period of excessive heat, often with high humidity. Extreme heat is the leading weather-related cause of death in the United States.
Disaster History
Case studies and disaster history
California 2006: The Heat Wave That Overwhelmed the Power Grid - and Killed Farm Workers in the Fields
In July 2006, a 14-day heat wave killed more than 650 people in California - the most heat deaths in any year in state history. In the Central Valley, farm workers died in the fields: a 47-year-old ha
European Heat Wave 2003: How a Three-Week August Heat Wave Killed 14,802 in France - and What Social Isolation Had to Do with It
In August 2003, Europe experienced the hottest summer since 1500. The death toll exceeded 70,000 across the continent. France lost 14,802 people - mostly elderly women living alone on the top floors o
India 2015: "Either We Work or We Don't Eat" - 2,500 Heat Deaths and the Interventions That Were Available
In May 2015, an extreme heat wave in southern India's Andhra Pradesh and Telangana states killed approximately 2,500 people - the fifth deadliest heat wave in world history. Most victims were outdoor
Pacific Northwest Heat Dome 2021: Seattle Hit 108°F - and Two-Thirds of Households Earning Under $50,000 Had No Air Conditioning
On June 28-29, 2021, Seattle reached 108°F - breaking its previous all-time record by 4 degrees. Portland hit 116°F. Lytton, British Columbia, hit 121°F - Canada's new all-time national record. Over 1
Preparedness
Preparedness and self-reliance
Summer Driving Preparedness
Hot-weather vehicle risks and heat-specific preparedness. Summer vehicle check for tires, coolant, AC, and battery. Tire blowout protocol. Engine overheating protocol. Heat inside a parked car and occupant safety.
Hazard-Specific Planning
Planning for the specific hazards that threaten your area. What distinguishes each hazard type, unique preparations, watch versus warning, and pre-decided action triggers.
Heat Wave Safety Plan
Heat kills more Americans each year than any other weather event. Learn who
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