WASHINGTON — Public health officials across parts of the United States and Europe warned residents on Monday about heightened risks from extreme heat following the summer solstice, as high temperatures and humidity prompted health alerts, cooling-center activations and emergency preparedness measures.
Weather agencies and health authorities issued advisories in several regions where temperatures were forecast to reach unusually high levels for June. Officials said older adults, young children, people with chronic medical conditions and outdoor workers face an increased risk of heat-related illness during prolonged periods of extreme heat.
The warnings came as a major heat wave affected large areas of Europe. French authorities placed dozens of administrative regions under the highest level of heat alert, while temperatures in some locations were expected to exceed 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). France’s health ministry reported several heat-related deaths among elderly residents, although officials said investigations into individual cases were continuing.
In the United States, state and local governments activated heat-response measures as forecasters predicted dangerous conditions in several regions. Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont ordered the activation of the state’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol earlier this month, citing forecasts of temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit and heat index values reaching triple digits. State officials urged residents to stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned spaces and check on vulnerable neighbors.
“Keep your body temperature cool to avoid heat-related illness,” Connecticut officials said in public guidance issued as part of the emergency protocol. Authorities also encouraged residents to avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said extreme heat remains one of the leading causes of weather-related deaths in the country. According to the agency, heat-related illness can occur when the body is unable to cool itself effectively, potentially leading to serious medical complications.
Health departments have also advised hospitals and care facilities to prepare for increased demand during periods of high temperatures. In New York, health officials recently urged providers to monitor vulnerable populations closely and reinforce hydration and cooling measures throughout the summer.
Meteorologists said the current heat events were being intensified by high humidity and unusually warm overnight temperatures, conditions that can limit the body's ability to recover from daytime heat exposure. Similar warnings were issued in parts of the United Kingdom, where health agencies placed several regions under heat-health alerts.
As of Monday, heat advisories and health alerts remained in effect in multiple jurisdictions. Public health officials said residents should continue monitoring local forecasts and follow guidance from emergency management agencies as summer temperatures persist.
