Geoscience Reference
In-Depth Information
water that is available. Social unrest can occur (and has occurred) due to perceived
disparities in water distribution to particular segments of population in comparison
with others.
Preparation and Planning
Emergency Managers can work with area horticulturists to encourage the planting of
drought-resistant plants and trees. This will reduce the need for use of water for irriga-
tion should a drought occur. The Emergency Manager can also work with officials to
develop water conservation rules and regulations in the case a drought occurs. This can
include limitation of water use for irrigation purposes, cutting of water to decorative
ponds and fountains, and imposing fines for excessive water usage.
Extreme Heat/Heat Waves
Description and History
There is no universal definition for a heat wave because heat waves are relative based
on the normal temperatures an area typically experiences. However, it can be said
that heat waves are extended periods of extreme heat, which may or may not be
accompanied by high humidity. Extreme events are only rivaled by cold weather
events in the amount of deaths they cause on an annual basis. Historically, from
1979 to 2003, excessive heat exposure caused 8015 deaths in the United States.
During this period, more people in this country died from extreme heat than from
hurricanes, lightning, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes combined. In 2001, 300
deaths were caused by excessive heat exposure.
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One historical extreme event occurred in Chicago, Illinois, between July 12-15,
1995. During this four-day period, the amount of deaths caused by factors related
to the heat rose to more than 500. The closeness of the buildings in downtown
Chicago, the widespread amount of asphalt pavement, the tendency for people to
stay indoors due to fear of crime, and a lack of a lake breeze from Lake Michigan
complicated the heat-related issues. During this time, heat indices rose to 125°F (it
was thought to be higher in some pockets of Chicago).
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Consequences of Extreme Heat/Heat Waves
Extreme heat events can cause heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and dehydration in
individuals who do not take precautions to protect themselves during these events.
Each of these heat-related conditions can also lead to death if undetected or not
treated. Children, elderly, people with breathing problems, and pets, are all par-
ticularly vulnerable to extreme heat events. Extreme heat events can also cause
droughts (described above) and power outages due to the excessive demand on
electricity for cooling.
