Health Impacts of Extreme Weather Exposure
1.01.2026
Introduction
Extreme weather events occur in most parts of the world, and have become more frequent and intense due to climate change. These events pose significant threats to human health, impacting individuals, communities, and health systems worldwide. The health impacts can be immediate or long-term, direct or indirect, and often disproportionately affect vulnerable populations including children, older adults and people with chronic illnesses. Low-income communities, and those living in disaster-prone areas also experience greater impacts. Victims of extreme weather conditions experience life-long trauma and mental health impacts due to accompanied devastations and losses. Some of these weather conditions include heatwaves, floods, wildfires, and extreme cold.
1. Heatwaves
Extreme heat such as heat domes in North America represent one of the deadliest weather-related hazards globally. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion and heatstroke, dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, worsened chronic conditions and increased risk of pregnancy complications. Protection strategies include frequent hydration, air conditioning and light, loose-fitting clothing
2. Floods
Flooding, particularly during rainy seasons in Sub-saharan Africa, can cause both immediate injuries and longer-term health problems including drowning and physical injuries, waterborne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea, skin infections and increased mental health problems. Protection strategies include no contact with floodwater, safely treated drinking water, proper sanitation and hand hygiene
3. Wildfires
The health impacts of wildfires for example, in western Canada, extend across cities and areas beyond the flames. These impacts include respiratory illnesses, eye irritation and cardiovascular strain from smoke exposure, burns and injuries. Protection strategies include wearing nose masks outdoors, using air purifiers indoors, and following evacuation orders promptly
4. Extreme Cold
Winter storms in North America can lead to power outages, resulting in cold-related deaths. Health impacts of cold weather exposure include hypothermia and frostbite, increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, carbon monoxide poisoning from improper heating methods and injuries from falls. Protection strategies include using heaters, wearing warm and layered clothing, checking weather forecasts and avoiding exposure to cold.
Conclusion
Extreme weather conditions pose public health challenges with wide-ranging physical, mental, and social consequences. As climate change accelerates, the frequency and severity of these events will continue to increase, placing greater strain on individuals and health systems. Protective measures require a combination of personal preparedness, community resilience, and strong public health policies, including early warning systems, climate-adapted infrastructure, and equitable access to healthcare. By understanding the health risks and adopting protective measures, individuals and societies can reduce vulnerability and improve resilience in the face of extreme weather. Long-term recovery often includes rebuilding infrastructure and providing sustained mental health and social support.