Climate change could double US temperature-related deaths by mid-century

Heat deaths in the United States are on the rise. But how bad will it be 20, 30 or 40 years from now? Scientists now have a clue.

Currently, about 8,000 more deaths in the United States each year are associated with extreme temperatures, hot and cold. Within the next few decades, that number could double or even triple, largely because of the heat, researchers report Sept. 20. JAMA Network Open.

“With climate warming, the frequency, duration and intensity of heat waves is increasing. Understanding how this will affect our health is essential,” says Sameed Khatana, a cardiologist at the University of Pennsylvania.. Our bodies are capable of withstanding high temperatures, but as temperatures rise, this ability is pushed to its limit (SN: 21.6.24).