By Benjamin Curran
Extreme heat is happening more often, lasting longer and getting more intense
Washington, D.C., June 2, 2025 — Heat waves kill more people each year than any other natural disaster. 2024 was one of the hottest summers on record, and experts predict that the summer of 2025 may be just as intense with hotter than normal temperatures.
The dangers of extreme heat are very real here in the D.C. metro area. Today, on Heat Action Day, the American Red Cross of the National Capital and Greater Chesapeake Region urges everyone to get ready for extreme heat by taking three actions:
1. Stay hydrated by drinking a cup of water every hour, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary, caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.
2. Stay cool by spending time in air-conditioned places. If your home is too hot, go to a mall, library or cooling center.
3. Stay connected by checking on others and asking for help if you need it. Don’t forget to make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.
“Heatwaves are becoming more frequent, longer, hotter and deadlier due to the climate crisis. This silent killer must be taken seriously,” said Dale Kunce, CEO of the Red Cross of the National Capital & Greater Chesapeake Region. “While anyone can be affected by extreme heat, it can be especially dangerous for older adults, young children, pregnant women, outdoor workers and those with chronic conditions or disabilities. Let’s keep our communities safe by looking out for each other and taking simple, proactive steps to beat the heat.”
PLAN AHEAD: To be ready for extreme heat, think about how you’ll stay cool. If you have air conditioning, make sure it’s working properly. If you don’t have air conditioning, think about where you’ll go to cool off, how you’ll get there and what you’ll take with you.
In an emergency, it’s critical to act fast, so learn the signs of heat illness and what to do. Talk to your doctor about how you can stay healthy. Make sure you have supplies to keep medication cool and equipment charged, especially during a power outage. When a heat wave and a power outage happen at the same time, it can be even more dangerous. Visit here to learn what steps to take if the power goes out.
If you’re an athlete or you work outdoors, think about how you can alter your schedule to avoid the hottest times of the day. This is especially important for youth sports. Consider how you’ll stay hydrated and find a cool place to take breaks. Don’t forget your furry friends and make sure pets have access to fresh water and shade.
CHECK ON OTHERS: Once you’re ready for the heat, connect with loved ones and neighbors to see if they need help. Make a list of who you’ll check on and help them make a plan so they know what do. Have them sign up for free emergency alerts from their local government.
Finally, download the free Red Cross First Aid app so you’ll know what to do if emergency help is delayed and the free Emergency app for real-time weather alerts and heat safety information. Content is available in English and Spanish with an easy-to-find language selector. Find both apps in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.