By: Ruyi Lin
Record-breaking temperatures hit the East Coast from Washington, D.C., to New York on Sunday the 23th, with the National Weather Service declaring an “extreme” heat risk. The extreme heat particularly impacted the homeless, older adults, those with medical conditions, and low-income families without air-conditioning, leading to increased emergency calls.
New and Old Heat Records
On Sunday, the Mid-Atlantic from Washington, D.C. to New York experienced extreme heat, with the National Weather Service rating the heat risk as “extreme.” Many daily temperature records were broken, including ranging from 98 to 101 degrees in East Coast cities. With civilians expecting worse effects, the worst heat was expected to subside by Sunday evening, and temperatures are forecasted to stay in the 80s for the week.
Helplessness Within the Homeless
In Pensacola, Florida, a small group of homeless individuals gathered outside the closed Waterfront Rescue Mission (a nonprofit organization assisting homeless or poor individuals) hoping for relief from the heat, as the heat index of about 100 degrees fell short of the 105-degree threshold for opening. With strict government enforcements prohibiting sleep in public property, the homeless expressed helplessness in the heat.
Effects of Extreme Heat
Older adults, particularly those with medical conditions, either living alone or with limited mobility, are vulnerable to extreme heat according to the National Weather Service.
In Philadelphia, surpassing the previous record, this group faced significant challenges as temperatures soared to 98 degrees. Nolan Lawrence of the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging reported the increase in calls for city heatlines.
A heat wave across the Northeast, South, and Midwest made it difficult to sleep because of high temperatures. Studies indicate extreme heat affects sleep quality and quantity, particularly for low-income families without air-conditioning, older adults, and those with health conditions. Having a plan to stay cool while sleeping is crucial.