Durham Region Health Department Releases Report on Extreme Heat

The Durham Region Health Department has released a report titled 'Assessing the Impact of Extreme Heat,' which is part of the 'Climate Change and Health in Durham Region' series. The report examines the current and future health impacts of extreme heat in the region.

According to the report, climate change is leading to more frequent and intense heat events, which are now the deadliest weather-related occurrences in Canada. These extreme heat events increase the risk of stress, illness, pregnancy complications, hospitalizations, and death among residents of Durham Region and the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation.

The report emphasizes the need for Durham Region to prepare for more frequent and severe heat waves. It suggests prioritizing individuals who are more exposed or sensitive to heat and those living in areas at higher risk of high indoor temperatures to prevent heat-related illnesses and deaths.

Dr. Robert Kyle, Durham Region Medical Officer of Health, stated that it is essential to prioritize equity and ensure that all residents have the ability to avoid harmful heat. He mentioned that reducing heat exposure and supporting residents' ability to protect themselves can help prevent heat-related health issues.

The report also highlights the importance of nature-based solutions to cool neighborhoods and increase heat resilience as the natural environment also experiences the strain of increasing extreme heat.

For more information and to access the full report, visit durham.ca/ClimateAndHealth.