Have you ever wondered if it’s safe to go outside during a heatwave? The new HeatRisk tool, developed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), could provide the answer you need.
Launched on Earth Day 2024, HeatRisk is designed to help people prepare for extreme heatwaves, which are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change. HeatRisk uses a color scale ranging from green to magenta to indicate the level of extreme heat risk at a specific location over the next seven days. This forecast helps people decide if it’s safe to work or be outdoors and to take appropriate preventive measures.
How Does HeatRisk Work?
HeatRisk allows users to enter their address and obtain a local forecast of extreme heat. If your area appears in magenta, it means dangerously high temperatures are expected. The tool not only provides information on forecasted high and low temperatures but also considers historical context and other factors such as heat retention in urban areas, like Miami.
For example, during a recent heatwave, much of Miami-Dade was in magenta, indicating record temperatures. According to Kimberly McMahon, manager of the NWS Public Weather Services Program, the red scale indicates dangerous conditions, while magenta signals extreme danger. This level of detail is crucial for planning outdoor activities and taking measures to protect health.
HeatRisk is useful not only for individuals but also for employers and medical service providers. The tool can help plan the week and make informed decisions about opening cooling centers or scheduling outdoor work. Additionally, it provides specific recommendations for people vulnerable to heat, such as the elderly, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions.
The tool is currently in an experimental phase and open to public feedback. NOAA hopes to improve its accessibility and usability over time by incorporating graphics, videos, and better language options. Dr. Cheryl Holder, a community health advocate, emphasizes the importance of educating the community about the risks of extreme heat and how tools like HeatRisk can save lives.
With rising extreme temperatures, HeatRisk is a crucial innovation for public safety and well-being. As severe heat becomes more common, it is vital to stay informed and prepared. NOAA and NWS continue to work on making HeatRisk more accessible and effective for all people in the United States.
In summary, HeatRisk not only offers a forecast of extreme heat but also provides the tools and recommendations necessary to make informed decisions and protect against dangerous heat. Are you ready for the next summer? With HeatRisk, you can be.
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