Heat is the deadliest extreme weather condition. The human body relies on sweating for cooling, but this system is limited under high temperatures and humidity.
Key Details
Heat can cause death through three main mechanisms: heatstroke, cardiovascular failure, and organ damage from hyperthermia.
- Heatstroke occurs when the body's temperature regulation fails, leading to organ dysfunction.
- High humidity impairs sweat evaporation, reducing cooling efficiency.
Preventive Tips
- Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during peak heat, and seek cool environments.
- Recognize symptoms of heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea.
- Cool down by moving to shade, applying cool cloths, and drinking water.
The article was written and illustrated by Connie Hanzhang Jin, based on reporting by Maria Godoy, and edited by Carmel Wroth and Alyson Hurt.