health
US cities expand cooling centers but struggle to get people inside
More air-conditioned spaces are open during extreme heat, but distance, stigma and risk perception keep many away
TL;DR
- US cities are increasing efforts to establish cooling centers to protect people from extreme heat waves.
- Lower-income individuals, who are at higher risk, often do not use cooling centers due to reasons like commute length or underestimating the danger.
- Heat domes have led to record-breaking temperatures and a spike in heat-related illnesses and deaths across the US.
- New York City and Maine have expanded their networks of cooling centers, but utilization remains a problem.
- Barriers to using cooling centers include distance, pride, lack of social connection, and negative past experiences for those who are homeless.
- Officials encourage community members to check on their neighbors during extreme heat events.