Extreme Heat: Myths, Risks, and What Communities Can Do 

Presented by Ashley Ward, PhD

Extreme heat is now the leading cause of weather-related death in the United States, yet it remains one of the least understood climate risks. Many people still assume heat only affects large cities, that air conditioning alone solves the problem, or that heat is mainly a comfort issue rather than a serious health and economic threat. In this talk, Dr. Ashley Ward, Director of the Heat Policy Innovation Hub at Duke University’s Nicholas Institute, will explore the growing impacts of extreme heat on health, infrastructure, and local economies. She will unpack some of the most common myths about heat risk and explain why communities across North Carolina, including rural towns, are increasingly vulnerable. The conversation will also highlight practical tools communities can use to prepare for heat season, including emerging heat alert systems, local cooling strategies, and resources available to residents, local governments, and community organizations. Finally, the talk will explore policy opportunities at the state and national level that could help communities better manage rising heat risks in the years ahead. This session is designed to provide residents with a clearer understanding of heat risk and actionable ideas for how communities can respond together. https://nicholasinstitute.duke.edu/people/ashley-ward