HEAT.gov

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    On July 26, 2022, Heat.gov was launched to inform the public about the extreme heat many are experiencing in the country this summer. The National Integrated Heat Health Information Systems (NIHHIS) launched the new site, and it's a "priority of President Biden's National Climate Task Force." It offers a variety of information, data, and maps all regarding these extreme temperatures. With the annual average temperature having a projected rise between 5°F and 8.7°F by the end of the century, it's crucial to inform the public on how to deal with the heat and what can be done to address it. 

Learn & Events

In order to educate the public about the various aspects of heat and its impacts, NIHHIS is hosting various webinars and events. They include the following:

Another way Heat.gov educates the public is by explaining compound hazards and Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT). WBGT is a "parameter that estimates the effect of temperature, relative humidity, wind, and solar radiation on humans." This type of measurement is used mostly as an indicator "of heat stress for active populations such as outdoor workers and athletes." Weather.gov offers an WBGT informational guide for more information. 


Heat.gov also educates the public on urban heat islands and at risk groups. Urban heat islands are cities that get up to 20°F warmer than their surrounding rural landscapes. This comes from a lack of vegetation and the large amount of heat absorbing materials used in cities. Because of this, those living in urban areas have a higher chance of compromising their health. 


Heat.gov touches on at risk groups and what can be done to help them in this extreme heat. It can be due to an increased exposure, lack of resources, or prior health issues. These groups include:
Tools & Information

Heat.gov offers a variety of tools that increase awareness and helps prepare individuals for heat events.

  • Monthly Seasonal Health Forecasts that go into details regarding heat, wildfire, drought, and hurricanes in different U.S. regions.
  • Health resources for heat-related health problems and hurricanes.
  • This Week-2 global probabilistic extremes forecast tool applies statistical adjustments to determine skillful weather forecasts.

Extreme Heat Vulnerability Mapping Tool
  • Measures social vulnerability of every county 
  • Ranks on 15 social factors including poverty, vehicle access, and crowded housing

Heat & Health Tracker
  • CDC provides local heat & health information for communities.
  • Effects on county and response resources

Planning & Preparing

Heat.gov has various planning and preparing tips for different levels. They offer information for public health officials, employers, and even healthcare professionals. When it comes to staying safe before a heat wave, it's encouraged to have an emergency kit, hydrate with water throughout the day, check air-conditioning ducts for proper insulation, and install temporary window reflectors. During a heat wave, never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle, drink plenty of water, and consistently check the weather. 

Extra Resources

Ready.gov offers information about extreme heat and related illnesses. 

The EPA offers plans to reduce the effects of extreme heat.

The National Weather Service has been hosting a Summer Safety campaign to spread information. 

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Government Information Online is produced by the staff at the Oklahoma State University Libraries Government Documents Department, a regional depository for U.S. Government and Oklahoma state government documents. We are located on the 5th floor of the Edmon Low Library. Our department website can be reached at www.info.library.okstate.edu/government-documents. For more information or for research assistance, contact us at 405.744.6546. or email suzanne.reinman@okstate.edu.

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