When temperatures soared to record-breaking levels during the 2021 heat dome, hundreds of people across Washington, Oregon and British Columbia lost their lives, exposing how unprepared the Pacific Northwest was for extreme heat.
A University of Washington-led study brought together insights from public health leaders, emergency managers, researchers and community organizations across the region to identify practical steps for protecting communities before the next major heat event. Their recommendations range from expanding access to cooling resources and retrofitting buildings to strengthening neighborhood networks and improving emergency communications. Participants also emphasized that those most at risk during extreme heat are often people already facing health, housing or economic challenges.
The study concluded that better coordination, sustained investment and a strong focus on health equity will be critical as extreme heat becomes a more common part of life in the Pacific Northwest.