New Haven, CT—A record-breaking heat wave is looming in Connecticut this week. As residents across the state brace for some of the hottest days in recent memory, the Connecticut Coalition for Climate Action reflects on what this could mean for our most vulnerable populations, and what our state can do to protect its residents in the future.
Heat and Public Health
Global temperatures are rising, and in Connecticut, the average temperature has increased by 3-3.5 degrees Farenheit since 1895, nearly double the global average. Extreme heat is not just uncomfortable; it can be deadly. A 2020 report found that in Connecticut from 2007-2016, there were an average of 422 emergency room visits and 45 hospitalizations per year for heat related illness, with many more going unreported.
“In doctors’ offices and emergency rooms across Connecticut, we’re already seeing more heat related visits each summer. The people hit hardest are older adults, young children, pregnant women, outdoor workers, and people with heart or lung problems. As health professionals, we want everyone to know what to look for and what to do. Find a cooling center near you at https://www.211ct.org/ if you don’t have good air conditioning. Drink water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. If you take diuretics or other medications that affect fluid balance, talk to your doctor about how to stay safe in extreme heat. Learn the warning signs of heat illness, like feeling dizzy, confused, sick to your stomach, or having a fast heartbeat and hot, dry skin. If you or someone near you shows these signs, get to a cool place right away and get medical help,” said Sam Cherubin, author of The Crisis Is Here: Protecting Your Health in a Changing World, Connecticut Health Professionals for Climate Action.
“Extreme heat is becoming one of the most immediate climate-driven health threats in Connecticut, with dangerous high-temperature days rising sharply year over year. When heat and humidity climb, the risks to residents—from heat illness to poor air quality—grow quickly, underscoring the urgent need to cut emissions and protect public health.” said Julianna McVeigh, Climate and Resilience Campaigns Manager at Save the Sound.
Heat and Environmental Justice
Those who suffer most from extreme heat events are the elderly, people who work outside, and those who live in older, inefficient buildings. Not every home has air conditioning, and costs can become prohibitive even for those that do given the relative inefficiency of window AC units and how hard they must work on the hottest days.
“Extreme heat waves fueled by climate change hurt our most vulnerable brothers and sisters first – senior citizens, people who are sick, and people who are unhoused are at high risk during these events. We have a moral, ethical, and spiritual obligation not only to care for them in their hour of need, but to seek clean energy solutions that protect public health and the planet,” said Terri Eickel, Executive Director of the Interreligious Eco-Justice Network.
Policy Solutions
Events like this heatwave are an urgent reminder that climate action cannot wait. The impacts are here, harming our friends and neighbors, and are only getting worse. It’s time to adopt policies that promote efficient and affordable cooling, reduce climate-warming pollution, and protect the health and safety of our most vulnerable populations. Here’s what members of the steering committee have to say about policy solutions that can help mitigate the climate crisis:
“Extreme heat events are increasing in Connecticut due to climate change. While Connecticut has taken some initial steps, there is much more to be done to address the root causes of climate change and invest in solutions that protect residents from dangerous heat,” said Samantha Dynowski, Director of Sierra Club Connecticut. “The choices made today will determine whether future generations inherit a safer, more resilient Connecticut or face increasingly severe and dangerous climate impacts.”
“As Connecticut endures another period of extreme heat, now is the time to consider home energy improvements that can keep your home cooler, more comfortable, and less expensive to operate. Homeowners can learn about energy-saving improvements, rebates, and trusted programs through the Connecticut Energy Efficiency Board and Energize Connecticut at www.energizect.com“ said Bernie Pelletier of People’s Action for Clean Energy.
“Any future that cares about our climate must care about how we power our lives. Clean energy is not only the only path for the climate but also the better path for our household electric bills. It’s time we put 2 and 2 together and get bold for a clean energy future that benefits us all,” said Nathan Frohling, Director of External Affairs for The Nature Conservancy in CT.
The CT Coalition for Climate Action comprises environmental organizations, health experts, faith leaders, labor and municipal representatives, and others advocating for climate action in Connecticut. Formed in 2023, the Coalition’s central demand is that Connecticut keep its promise to cut climate pollution and protect our future. Members of the coalition’s steering committee are Save the Sound, American College of Physicians – CT Chapter, ConnPIRG, Conservation Law Foundation, CT Health Professionals for Climate Action, CT League of Conservation Voters, Environment Connecticut, Interreligious Eco-Justice Network, Mitchell Environmental Health Associates, People’s Action for Clean Energy, Sierra Club CT, and the Nature Conservancy in CT. More information at www.climateactionct.org
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