Environmental groups push for FEMA to consider extreme heat a disaster

WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) — Summer officially starts in two days, but already tens of millions of Americans are facing extreme heat advisories, with temperatures expected to hover over 90 degrees in some places all week.

“We’re going to see a new record of deaths this year,” Jean Su, Center for Biological Diversity said.

Some environmental groups say the impacts from extreme heat should be treated just like a tornado.

Su said that means the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) should classify it as a major disaster.

“We believe that it’s broad enough for you to basically recognize extreme heat and wildfire smoke, just as you did for Covid-19,” Su said.

By recognizing extreme heat as a major disaster it would open access to federal dollars for state governments to help with resources like water distribution and cooling centers.

In a statement FEMA said, “FEMA has a well-established process for how we assess if there is a need for additional federal support for state and local entities that are dealing with any type of hazard. The foundation of that process is an evaluation that the need exceeds the capacity of the state, local, tribal or territorial entity. There is nothing specific in the Stafford Act that precludes a declaration for extreme heat. The Stafford Act is fairly broad in how it describes the circumstances in which we could provide assistance to under emergency declaration — it’s an area in which there’s an immediate threat to life and safety that is beyond the capability of the state to respond to.”

FEMA did not offer a reason why it hasn’t taken that step.

Su says it is prepared to take legal action if FEMA doesn’t act.

The American Red Cross says it’s important for everyone to be cautious during this heat.

At the White House press briefing Tuesday, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stepped away from the podium to help someone who passed out.

“It is hot in here,” Jean-Pierre said.

Nicole Maul with the American Red Cross offers these tips:

-Slow down by postponing or limiting outdoor activities. If you must work outdoors, take frequent breaks and avoid the hottest part of the day. Never leave children or pets in your vehicle alone.

-Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks. Check that animals also have access to fresh water and shade.

-Spend time indoors in an air-conditioned place. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to a public library, shopping mall or public cooling center. Check on loved ones and neighbors who may be at risk and don’t have air conditioning.

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