Public Health > Air Quality
As droughts lead to wildfires and warming temperatures stimulate ground-level ozone production, state and local governments find it more and more challenging to achieve and maintain national air quality standards. Indoors, flooding produces conditions favorable for the growth of mold and fungi. These impacts are worse for communities with fewer resources and for communities that are already marginalized.
For more information about the impacts of climate change on public health as it relates to air quality, view Climate Implications – Air Quality and Health
Public Health > Extreme Heat
Increased daytime temperatures, reduced nighttime cooling and higher air pollution levels associated with heat events can affect human health, especially for vulnerable populations and low-income communities. Heat strokes, heat cramps and exhaustion and respiratory problems are common during high heat events.
For more details about the impacts of extreme heat on public health, view Climate Implications - Extreme Heat and Health
Public Health > Mosquitoes, Ticks and Other Vectors
Cold temperatures control populations of mosquitoes, ticks and other disease-carrying vectors. As average temperatures increase, the presence of these vectors is spreading to new areas of the country. Without proper planning by public health and other officials, incidences of Lyme disease, Zika and other diseases will become more common.
For more details about the impacts of climate change as it relates to mosquitoes, ticks, and other vectors, view Climate Implications - Mosquitoes, Ticks, and Other Vectors
Public Health > Water Quality
Climate change is expected to adversely affect water quality in ways that will impact human health. More frequent and intense storms, flooding, warmer air temperatures and drought all disturb the quality of ground and surface water, affecting drinking water quality. Increased amounts of stormwater runoff, which carries pollutants and, in some cases, sewage, affects water bodies used for recreational purposes. When flooding occurs, there are increased risks for chemicals held in underground storage tanks, landfills and storm debris to leak or spread to previously unsoiled areas.
For more information about the implications of climate change on public health as it relates to water quality, view Climate Implications – Water Quality and Health
For more information about the implications of climate change on recreational water and public health, view Climate Implications – Recreational Water and Health
For more information about chemical exposure from flooding, view Climate Implications – Chemical Exposure and Health
See ERIT’s Implications of Climate Change page for more information about how climate change is affecting communities.