Extreme heat can be a serious health threat

In 2008, 71 people died in the United States as a result of extreme heat.

In 2008, the most dangerous place to be was in a permanent home

with little or no air conditioning, where a reported 39 deaths (55%) occurred. The next most dangerous location was

outside/open areas, where 18 people (25%) succumbed to heat. Pennsylvania numbered the most heat victims, 27,

followed by Nevada with 19, and Texas with 7.

 Extreme heat most strongly affected seniors 80-89, claiming 15 lives

(21%) and adults, 50-59 and 60-69, with 14 deaths each (20%). As in most weather fatality categories, many more

males 46 (65%) were killed than females 22 (31%), with 3 victims (4%) unknown.

Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

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