The HeatRisk Tool, a joint initiative by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Weather Service, is a valuable resource for understanding and preparing for the impact of rising heat on our health. This tool provides a seven-day heat forecast nationwide and uses a scale from 0 to 4 and from green to magenta to indicate levels of heat risk. At level 0 or green, there is little to no risk from heat, while at level 4 or magenta, there is an extreme risk to individuals, health systems, and heat-sensitive industries.
In addition to forecasting heat levels, the HeatRisk Tool also offers guidance for clinicians on how to protect individuals most at risk of heat-related illnesses. This includes pregnant women, children with asthma, and people with cardiovascular disease. By using this tool, healthcare providers can better understand when temperatures may reach dangerous levels and take appropriate steps to protect their patients’ health.
Dr. Mallika Marshall is an Emmy-award-winning journalist and physician who has been the HealthWatch Reporter for CBS Boston/WBZ-TV for over 20 years. She is board-certified in both Internal Medicine and Pediatrics and practices at Massachusetts General Hospital, where she is currently caring for patients with COVID-19. Dr. Marshall also serves on staff at Harvard Medical School and is a contributing editor for Harvard Health Publications. Her work in journalism has helped raise awareness about important health issues such as this one
