{"id":122730,"date":"2026-09-18T14:55:08","date_gmt":"2026-09-18T21:55:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.worldvision.org\/?p=122730"},"modified":"2026-09-18T14:55:08","modified_gmt":"2026-09-18T21:55:08","slug":"extreme-heat-facts","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.worldvision.org\/disaster-relief-news-stories\/extreme-heat-facts","title":{"rendered":"Extreme heat and heat waves: Facts, FAQs, and how to help"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><body><p>When temperatures rise, many people look for shade, turn on the&nbsp;AC, or reach for a glass of cold water. But millions of children around the world don&rsquo;t have those options, especially when extreme&nbsp;heat and heat waves become more frequent, longer-lasting, and more intense.<\/p>\n<p>In communities already facing poverty and instability, dangerous heat can increase the burden of daily life. Heat waves not only threaten health but can strain water supplies, damage crops, and threaten livelihoods. Children are especially vulnerable when families can&rsquo;t access clean water, healthcare, or ways to cool down.<\/p>\n<p>Around the world, World Vision works alongside communities before, during, and after disasters to help protect children and strengthen their resilience against crises, including those made worse by extreme heat.<\/p>\n<p>Whether you&rsquo;re trying to understand heat waves, why they are&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/europe\/emergencies\/situations\/climate-crisis-extreme-weather\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">becoming more common<\/a>, or how you can help, this guide will answer some of the most common questions.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"faqs\">Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#fast-facts\">Fast facts: Heat waves and extreme heat<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#what\">What is a heat wave?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#cause\">What causes a heat wave?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#common\">Are heat waves becoming more common?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#children\">Why are children especially vulnerable to heat?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#affect\">How do heat waves affect people and communities?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#risk\">Who is most at risk from extreme heat?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#signs\">What are the warning signs of heat illness?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#prevent\">How do you prevent heat illness?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#response\">How does World Vision respond during extreme heat?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#help\">How can I help people impacted by extreme heat?<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"fast-facts\">Fast facts: Heat waves and extreme heat<\/h2>\n<p>Here are a few important things to know about&nbsp;extreme heat and heat waves:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<div role=\"presentation\">Heat waves are among the <a href=\"https:\/\/wmo.int\/themes\/extreme-heat\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">most dangerous natural hazards<\/a> and cause serious illness and death.<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<div role=\"presentation\">Changing weather patterns are making&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncei.noaa.gov\/news\/global-climate-202606\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">extreme heat and heat waves<\/a> more frequent, longer-lasting, and more intense.<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<div role=\"presentation\">Infants, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.weather.gov\/safety\/heat-children-pets\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">young children<\/a>, older adults, pregnant women, people with certain health conditions, and outdoor workers can face&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.weather.gov\/safety\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">greater risks from extreme heat<\/a>.<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<div role=\"presentation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/europe\/news\/item\/16-07-2026-planning-for-a-warmer-world\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Extreme heat<\/a> can worsen drought and water shortages and put more pressure on food security and livelihoods.<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<div role=\"presentation\">People living in poverty, as well as&nbsp;<a href=\"\/refugees-news-stories\/forced-to-flee-top-countries-refugees-coming-from\">displaced populations<\/a>, can face greater risks from extreme heat because they may have less access to safe housing, cooling, and other resources to help protect against dangerous temperatures.<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li>Access to clean water is essential during periods of extreme heat, when dehydration can become a serious health threat.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"font-size: 13px;\"><a href=\"#faqs\">BACK TO QUESTIONS<\/a><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_122755\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-122755\" style=\"width: 741px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-122755 lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/email\/met3\/spacer.gif\" alt=\"Map of the United States illustrating a heat dome trapping hot air over the central region.\" width=\"741\" height=\"406\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141820\/heatwave-1.jpg 741w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141820\/heatwave-1-640x351.jpg 640w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141820\/heatwave-1-200x110.jpg 200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141820\/heatwave-1-360x197.jpg 360w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 741px) 100vw, 741px\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141820\/heatwave-1.jpg\"><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-122755\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">High-pressure systems can create a &ldquo;cap&rdquo; that traps air in one place as it warms. This can lead to a heat wave. (Graphic courtesy of the National Weather Service)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"what\">What is a heat wave?<\/h2>\n<p>A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/fact-sheets\/detail\/climate-change-heat-and-health\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">heat wave<\/a> is a prolonged period of unusually hot weather, often lasting several days or longer, according to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">World Health Organization<\/a> (WHO). In many places, high humidity makes the heat feel even more intense and prevents the body from cooling itself effectively.<\/p>\n<p>Heat waves can occur almost anywhere, but their impacts are not felt equally.<\/p>\n<p>Families living without reliable electricity, access to clean water, adequate housing, or healthcare can face far greater risks during periods of extreme heat.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 13px;\"><a href=\"#faqs\">BACK TO QUESTIONS<\/a><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_122748\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-122748\" style=\"width: 1200px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-122748 lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/email\/met3\/spacer.gif\" alt=\"Women bend to gather dry grasses from a field under a bright, sunny sky.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140505\/W232-0397-002.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140505\/W232-0397-002-640x427.jpg 640w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140505\/W232-0397-002-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140505\/W232-0397-002-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140505\/W232-0397-002-850x567.jpg 850w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140505\/W232-0397-002-1140x760.jpg 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140505\/W232-0397-002.jpg\"><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-122748\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">In southern Malawi, extreme heat, drought, and El Ni&ntilde;o-related impacts devastated harvests and deepened food insecurity in 2024. As food supplies ran low, some families gathered and ate wild grasses to survive. Communities continue to face the risks of extreme heat, drought, and food insecurity. (&copy; 2024 World Vision\/photo by Fyson Masina)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"cause\">What causes a heat wave?<\/h2>\n<p>Heat waves usually develop when a high-pressure weather system traps warm air over an area for several days or longer, according to the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nesdis.noaa.gov\/about\/k-12-education\/understanding-our-planet\/what-heat-wave\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration<\/a> (NOAA). In recent decades, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/health-topics\/heatwaves\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">extreme heat events<\/a> have become more frequent, lasting longer and more intense in many parts of the world.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 13px;\"><a href=\"#faqs\">BACK TO QUESTIONS<\/a><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_122749\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-122749\" style=\"width: 1280px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-122749 lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/email\/met3\/spacer.gif\" alt=\"A graphic showing the world&rsquo;s temperatures slightly dipping and then rising from 1850 through 2025.\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140517\/2026GlobalReview_Anomalies_global_en_title_lg-1280x720.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140517\/2026GlobalReview_Anomalies_global_en_title_lg-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140517\/2026GlobalReview_Anomalies_global_en_title_lg-640x360.jpg 640w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140517\/2026GlobalReview_Anomalies_global_en_title_lg-200x113.jpg 200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140517\/2026GlobalReview_Anomalies_global_en_title_lg-360x203.jpg 360w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140517\/2026GlobalReview_Anomalies_global_en_title_lg-850x478.jpg 850w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140517\/2026GlobalReview_Anomalies_global_en_title_lg-1140x641.jpg 1140w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140517\/2026GlobalReview_Anomalies_global_en_title_lg.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140517\/2026GlobalReview_Anomalies_global_en_title_lg-1280x720.jpg\"><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-122749\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Planet earth recorded its third-warmest year on record in 2025, extending a three-year streak of exceptionally high global temperatures. (Graphic courtesy of Climate Central)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"common\">Are heat waves becoming more common?<\/h2>\n<p>Yes.&nbsp;<a href=\"\/disaster-relief-news-stories\/extreme-weather-helping-communities-recover-rebuild\">Extreme weather<\/a> patterns are increasing in frequency, intensity, and duration of extreme heat events in many parts of the world. While weather naturally varies from year to year, rising global temperatures are making dangerous heat more likely.<\/p>\n<div>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/wmo.int\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">World Meteorological Organization<\/a> (WMO) reports that the rate of warming has increased in recent decades.&nbsp;The past decade was the warmest on record, and <a href=\"https:\/\/wmo.int\/publication-series\/state-of-global-climate\/state-of-global-climate-2024\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">2024 was the warmest year on record<\/a>, with temperatures approximately 2.8 degrees F (1.55 degrees C) above the 1850&ndash;1900 average.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 13px;\"><a href=\"#faqs\">BACK TO QUESTIONS<\/a><\/p>\n<div><\/div>\n<div>\n<figure id=\"attachment_122750\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-122750\" style=\"width: 1200px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-122750 lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/email\/met3\/spacer.gif\" alt=\"Girls and boys carry water containers on their heads through a dry, parched landscape under the bright sun.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"547\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140603\/D200-1406-356.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140603\/D200-1406-356-640x292.jpg 640w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140603\/D200-1406-356-200x91.jpg 200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140603\/D200-1406-356-360x164.jpg 360w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140603\/D200-1406-356-850x387.jpg 850w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140603\/D200-1406-356-1140x520.jpg 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140603\/D200-1406-356.jpg\"><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-122750\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">In Kenya, 6-year-old Luvuno (shown right) and other children walk to an earthen dam to collect water for their families in the evening when temperatures are cooler. The long walks can leave children exhausted, and earlier in the day, they struggle to get to school on time. During extreme heat, carrying water can add to the physical strain children already face. (&copy; 2025 World Vision\/photo by Jon Warren)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"children\">Why are children especially vulnerable to heat?<\/h2>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.unicef.org\/stories\/heat-waves-impact-children\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Children experience heat differently&nbsp;<\/a>than adults. Their bodies produce more heat relative to their size and are less efficient at cooling themselves. Young children may not recognize the signs of dehydration or know when they need to rest or drink water. Infants and children with existing health conditions face even greater risks.<\/p>\n<p>Extreme heat can affect more than physical health and can disrupt children&rsquo;s learning, daily activities, and overall well-being.&nbsp;UNICEF reports that&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/news.un.org\/en\/story\/2024\/08\/1153171\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">466 million&nbsp;children&nbsp;<\/a>&mdash; about 1 in 5 children worldwide &mdash; live in areas experiencing at least twice as many extremely hot days as six decades ago.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 13px;\"><a href=\"#faqs\">BACK TO QUESTIONS<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>[vc_column_text]<\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\" align=\"center\">You can deliver hope and help<br>\namid emergencies.<\/h2>\n<p>[\/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=&rdquo;Give Now&rdquo; align=&rdquo;center&rdquo; link=&rdquo;url:https%3A%2F%2Fdonate.worldvision.org%2Fgive%2Fdisaster-relief|||&rdquo;]<\/p>\n<div>\n<figure id=\"attachment_122753\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-122753\" style=\"width: 1200px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-122753 lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/email\/met3\/spacer.gif\" alt=\"Rows of dead corn stalks stand in dry soil under cloudy skies.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141049\/5EAC74F7.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141049\/5EAC74F7-640x360.jpg 640w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141049\/5EAC74F7-200x113.jpg 200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141049\/5EAC74F7-360x203.jpg 360w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141049\/5EAC74F7-850x478.jpg 850w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141049\/5EAC74F7-1140x641.jpg 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141049\/5EAC74F7.jpg\"><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-122753\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Failed rains, dry conditions, and depleted water supplies are compounding the pressures facing farmers in Kirundo province, northern Burundi. World Vision visited the most affected areas to identify ways to support households facing losses of crops, income, and access to food. (&copy; 2025 World Vision\/photo by Javan Niyakire)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"affect\">How do heat waves affect people and&nbsp;communities?<\/h2>\n<p>Extreme heat touches nearly every part of daily life. About 489,000 heat-related deaths occur each year, according to the World Health Organization&rsquo;s studies, and heat-related mortality among people over 65 increased by about&nbsp;85% between 2000&ndash;2004 and 2017&ndash;2021.<\/p>\n<p>Heat waves and extreme heat also threaten livelihoods. More than <a href=\"https:\/\/www.unwater.org\/news\/who\/wmo-report-and-guidance-climate-change-and-workplace-heat-stress\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">2.4 billion workers<\/a> (approximately 71% of the global workforce) are exposed to excessive heat, contributing to more than&nbsp;22.8 million occupational injuries each year.<\/p>\n<p>Heat can also damage crops and livestock. A recent U.N. report by the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fao.org\/home\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Food and Agriculture Organization<\/a> (FAO)-WMO found that heat events have caused&nbsp;double-digit crop losses&nbsp;in some regions.<\/p>\n<p>In many communities where&nbsp;<a href=\"\/our-work\">World Vision works<\/a>, families are already coping with challenges such as conflict,&nbsp;<a href=\"\/refugees-news-stories\/forced-to-flee-top-countries-refugees-coming-from\">displacement<\/a>, <a href=\"\/hunger-news-stories\/world-hunger-facts\">hunger,<\/a> or limited access to healthcare. During a heat wave, those existing hardships become even more severe. Extreme heat often worsens existing conditions and crises. As temperatures rise, rivers, ponds, and shallow wells may shrink or dry up. Families often spend more time searching for safe water, reducing time for school or work, and increasing hardships.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 13px;\"><a href=\"#faqs\">BACK TO QUESTIONS<\/a><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_122743\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-122743\" style=\"width: 1200px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-122743 lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/email\/met3\/spacer.gif\" alt=\"A bearded man in traditional Afghan dress stands and looks down at a dry, parched field against a bright blue sky.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140345\/W005-0494-044.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140345\/W005-0494-044-640x427.jpg 640w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140345\/W005-0494-044-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140345\/W005-0494-044-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140345\/W005-0494-044-850x567.jpg 850w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140345\/W005-0494-044-1140x760.jpg 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140345\/W005-0494-044.jpg\"><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-122743\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">For families like Mohammad&rsquo;s, declining water supplies and failed crops threaten both their livelihoods and access to food in Herat, Afghanistan. (&copy; 2025 World Vision\/photo by Laurentia Jora)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<figure id=\"attachment_122744\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-122744\" style=\"width: 1200px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-122744 size-full lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/email\/met3\/spacer.gif\" alt=\"A bearded man wears a turban and holds a small bundle of dry grain stalks.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140358\/W005-0494-002.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140358\/W005-0494-002-640x427.jpg 640w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140358\/W005-0494-002-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140358\/W005-0494-002-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140358\/W005-0494-002-850x567.jpg 850w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140358\/W005-0494-002-1140x760.jpg 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140358\/W005-0494-002.jpg\"><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-122744\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Afghanistan&rsquo;s farmers are facing the compounding pressures of drought, depleted water supplies, and intense heat. In rural Herat, Mohammad harvested just a fraction of the wheat he planted after drought devastated his crop. (&copy; 2025 World Vision\/photo by Laurentia Jora)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<figure id=\"attachment_122746\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-122746\" style=\"width: 1200px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-122746 lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/email\/met3\/spacer.gif\" alt=\"A close-up of the ground along a narrow drainage channel that is dry and cracked and banked by vegetation\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140409\/W005-0494-025.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140409\/W005-0494-025-640x427.jpg 640w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140409\/W005-0494-025-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140409\/W005-0494-025-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140409\/W005-0494-025-850x567.jpg 850w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140409\/W005-0494-025-1140x760.jpg 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15140409\/W005-0494-025.jpg\"><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-122746\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">In rural Herat, Afghanistan, drought has left the earth cracked as farmers work under intense summer heat. (&copy; 2025 World Vision\/photo by Laurentia Jora)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"risk\">Who is most at risk from extreme heat?<\/h2>\n<p>Anyone can experience <a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/europe\/news\/item\/02-06-2026-strengthening-heat-health-action-plans-to-protect-public-health--with-who-guidance\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">heat-related illness<\/a>, but some&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/heat-health\/risk-factors\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">people have the greatest risks<\/a>, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Young children, whose bodies heat up more quickly and are less able to cool themselves.<\/li>\n<li>Older adults, who may have reduced ability to regulate body temperature.<\/li>\n<li>\n<div role=\"presentation\">Pregnant women,&nbsp;whose bodies work harder to cool both themselves and their developing baby. Pregnancy can also raise the risk of dehydration and heat-related complications.<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<div role=\"presentation\">People with&nbsp;certain chronic health conditions, including asthma, diabetes, heart disease, respiratory conditions, and kidney disease, which can be worsened by extreme heat.<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li>Outdoor workers, who may spend hours in hot conditions and direct sunlight.<\/li>\n<li>People experiencing homelessness, who may have limited or no access to shade, cooling, and safe shelters.<\/li>\n<li>\n<div role=\"presentation\">Families living without reliable access to clean water, cooling, or safe shelter, making it harder to protect themselves during extreme&nbsp;heat.<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<div role=\"presentation\">People living in urban areas with limited trees or green space<b>,<\/b>&nbsp;where pavement and other surfaces can absorb and retain heat, creating hotter conditions known as <a href=\"https:\/\/science.nasa.gov\/kids\/earth\/what-is-an-urban-heat-island\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">urban heat islands<\/a>.<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"font-size: 13px;\"><a href=\"#faqs\">BACK TO QUESTIONS<\/a><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_122754\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-122754\" style=\"width: 1280px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-122754 lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/email\/met3\/spacer.gif\" alt=\"Infographic showing groups of people at higher risk from heat, including a pregnant woman, a newborn, a child, an elderly woman, and a man with an illness. \" width=\"1280\" height=\"724\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141610\/Groups-1280x724.png 1280w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141610\/Groups-640x362.png 640w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141610\/Groups-200x113.png 200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141610\/Groups-360x204.png 360w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141610\/Groups-850x481.png 850w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141610\/Groups-1140x645.png 1140w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141610\/Groups.png 1430w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15141610\/Groups-1280x724.png\"><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-122754\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Extreme heat can pose greater health risks for vulnerable populations. (Graphic courtesy of NOAA)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"signs\">What are the warning signs of heat illness?<\/h2>\n<p>Early signs of heat-related illnesses can&nbsp;include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Heavy sweating<\/li>\n<li>Dizziness<\/li>\n<li>Fatigue<\/li>\n<li>Headache<\/li>\n<li>Muscle cramps<\/li>\n<li>Nausea<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/cdn.who.int\/media\/docs\/default-source\/environment-climate-change-and-health\/signs-of-heat-stroke.pdf?sfvrsn=96800ae4_5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Heatstroke is a medical emergency<\/a>. Warning signs&nbsp;can include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span role=\"presentation\">Confusion<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span role=\"presentation\">Loss of consciousness or seizures<\/span><\/li>\n<li>\n<div role=\"presentation\">A&nbsp;very high body temperature, often 103 degrees F (39.4 degrees C) or higher<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li><span role=\"presentation\">Hot skin that may be red, dry, or sweaty&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Seek emergency medical care immediately if someone is showing signs of heatstroke.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 13px;\"><a href=\"#faqs\">BACK TO QUESTIONS<\/a><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"prevent\">How do you prevent heat illness?<\/h2>\n<p style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can help <a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/news-room\/questions-and-answers\/item\/heatwaves-how-to-stay-cool\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">prevent heat illness and&nbsp;stay cool<\/a> during a heat wave &nbsp;or period of extreme heat by:<\/p>\n<ul style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\n<li><strong>Staying hydrated:<\/strong>&nbsp;Drink water regularly throughout the day, especially if you&rsquo;re active and spending time in the heat.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Staying cool:<\/strong>&nbsp;Spend time in air conditioning, shade, or another cool place whenever possible.<\/li>\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.who.int\/europe\/news-room\/fact-sheets\/item\/keepcool-in-the-heat\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Avoiding the hottest hours<\/a>:<\/strong>&nbsp;Plan strenuous activity and outdoor work for cooler parts of the day when possible.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dressing for the heat:<\/strong>&nbsp;Choose loose, lightweight clothing and protect yourself from direct sunlight.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Protecting children:<\/strong>&nbsp;Keep children cool and hydrated, and never leave them or pets alone in a parked vehicle.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Checking on others:<\/strong>&nbsp;Look in on older adults, young children, and people who may be especially vulnerable to extreme heat.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"font-size: 13px;\"><a href=\"#faqs\">BACK TO QUESTIONS<\/a><\/p>\n<figure id=\"attachment_122757\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-122757\" style=\"width: 1200px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-122757 lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/email\/met3\/spacer.gif\" alt=\"Three girls laugh as they wash their hands at a handwashing station. \" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15142459\/221545BE.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15142459\/221545BE-640x427.jpg 640w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15142459\/221545BE-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15142459\/221545BE-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15142459\/221545BE-850x567.jpg 850w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15142459\/221545BE-1140x760.jpg 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15142459\/221545BE.jpg\"><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-122757\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Six-year-old Chaom (center) represents three generations of connection to World Vision. Child sponsorship was active in Kampong Leaeng from 2003 to 2017, supporting livelihoods, maternal and child health, nutrition, water and sanitation, and education. As communities face challenges including extreme heat, children like Chaom, are helping carry that legacy forward in their communities. (&copy; 2024 World Vision\/photo by Ben Adams)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<figure id=\"attachment_122756\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-122756\" style=\"width: 1200px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-122756 lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/email\/met3\/spacer.gif\" alt=\"Water flows over the open hands of a child wearing bracelets at a sink.\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\" srcset=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15142440\/2C04585F.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15142440\/2C04585F-640x427.jpg 640w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15142440\/2C04585F-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15142440\/2C04585F-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15142440\/2C04585F-850x567.jpg 850w, https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15142440\/2C04585F-1140x760.jpg 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" data-src=\"https:\/\/wvusstatic.com\/www\/uploads\/2026\/09\/15142440\/2C04585F.jpg\"><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-122756\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Before World Vision launched sponsorship in Cambodia in 2003, the community faced significant challenges. Many families struggled to grow enough food, lacked access to clean water and sanitation facilities, and had limited educational opportunities for children. Access to clean water and other essential resources now helps families cope with challenges, including extreme heat and heat waves. (&copy; 2024 World Vision\/photo by Ben Adams)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"response\">How does World Vision respond during extreme heat?<\/h2>\n<p>Extreme heat is often part of a larger humanitarian crisis. That&rsquo;s why World Vision works with local communities to address both&nbsp;<a href=\"\/our-work\/disaster-relief\">immediate needs<\/a> and long-term resilience.<\/p>\n<p>Depending on the context, World Vision&rsquo;s response may include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<div role=\"presentation\">Through <a href=\"\/sponsor-a-child\/how-sponsorship-works\" data-outlook-id=\"39982498-3788-4875-89e2-474870ee1f75\"><u>child sponsorship<\/u><\/a>, working with communities and families over the long term to improve access to clean water, healthcare, education, livelihoods, and other resources that can help children and families become more resilient in weather-related challenges. <a href=\"\/disaster-relief-news-stories\/disaster-response-to-lasting-change\">Helping&nbsp;communities strengthen resilience&nbsp;<\/a>through expanding access to sustainable clean water sources, agricultural opportunities, and disaster preparedness programs<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li>Supporting water systems and water trucking where supplies are limited<\/li>\n<li>Creating Child-Friendly Spaces where children can rest and play safely<\/li>\n<li>Supporting health programs for vulnerable families<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>By partnering with local churches, community leaders, and families, World Vision works to ensure that support reaches impacted children and families who need it most.<\/p>\n<p style=\"font-size: 13px;\"><a href=\"#faqs\">BACK TO QUESTIONS<\/a><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"help\">How can I help people impacted by extreme heat and other emergencies?<\/h2>\n<p>No child should face life-threatening heat because they lack access to water, shelter, or healthcare.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span role=\"presentation\"><a href=\"\/christian-faith-news-stories\/hope-hard-places-pray-for-children\" data-outlook-id=\"315f048f-0cc7-4134-85cf-0a1b18b0065a\"><u>Pray<\/u><\/a><\/span>: <span role=\"presentation\">Join us in lifting the needs of children and families facing emergencies, including extreme heat and heat waves.&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span role=\"presentation\"><a href=\"https:\/\/donate.worldvision.org\/give\/disaster-relief\" data-outlook-id=\"a3a2464c-cea7-471a-a826-51b681ef80fd\"><u>Give<\/u><\/a><\/span>: Your support can help provide clean water, strengthen community resilience, and equip families with the resources they need to prepare for and recover from extreme weather-related disasters.<\/li>\n<li><span role=\"presentation\"><a href=\"\/sponsor-a-child\" data-outlook-id=\"27e98718-8350-404e-b336-a39803d064e4\"><u>Sponsor<\/u><\/a><\/span>: Sponsoring a child is a personal way to show God&rsquo;s love to a child in need.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"font-size: 13px;\"><a href=\"#faqs\">BACK TO QUESTIONS<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Extreme heat and heat waves are becoming more frequent and intense. Learn about the risks of extreme heat and heat waves and how World Vision is supporting children, families, and communities impacted by emergencies. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":341,"featured_media":122751,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_kad_blocks_custom_css":"","_kad_blocks_head_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_body_custom_js":"","_kad_blocks_footer_custom_js":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[181],"country":[],"filter":[176],"leader":[],"class_list":["post-122730","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-disaster-relief-news-stories","filter-from-the-field","tags-child-protection","tags-conflict","tags-displacement","tags-faq","tags-food-agriculture","tags-health","tags-hunger","tags-malnutrition","tags-natural-disasters","tags-news","tags-refugee-crisis"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin 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