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Extreme Heat, Smoke Should Get US Disaster Label, Groups Say .
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- ESG Insights
#ExtremeHeat and #Smoke get #DisasterLabel Push Key Takeaways:
- Activists are seeking FEMA recognition for extreme heat and wildfire smoke as disasters to unlock new funding.
- Heat waves and wildfires, exacerbated by climate change, are increasingly jeopardizing US public health and infrastructure.
- Federal funds could support preventative measures like air filters and solar systems to mitigate impacts.
Further Insights
FEMA Petition: Groups including environmentalists and public health advocates petition FEMA to classify extreme heat and wildfire smoke as major disasters for funding.
Climate Impact: Climate change intensifies heat waves and wildfire risks, with over 2,300 US deaths from heat in 2023 and widespread smoke from Canada affecting air quality.
Funding Uses: Proposed federal funding would enhance community infrastructure with air filters and energy solutions to preemptively combat extreme weather effects.
Historical Precedent: FEMA has previously denied major disaster declarations for extreme heat, highlighting the novelty and urgency of current petition efforts.
Health and Equity: Extreme heat disproportionately affects disadvantaged communities and outdoor workers, emphasizing the need for targeted financial aid and infrastructure improvements.
Closing Thoughts: As extreme weather events become more common, how will governmental responses evolve to protect vulnerable populations and ensure equitable access to aid?