Biden Issues Emergency Alert as Blistering Heatwave Sweeps Across Half of America
President Joe Biden Unveils Comprehensive Plan to Safeguard Communities from Extreme Heat
In response to the devastating impact of heatwaves affecting millions of Americans, President Biden has introduced a new initiative to protect citizens from the scorching temperatures. The plan encompasses a range of measures designed to shield workers, enhance weather forecasting accuracy, and ensure greater accessibility to drinking water.
Among the steps taken to combat the heat’s hazardous effects, Biden emphasized the importance of increased inspections in high-risk workplaces and stricter enforcement of heat safety regulations. To further prioritize safety, the Department of Labor will issue a hazard alert to employers and employees, providing crucial information on staying protected during extreme heat conditions.
As the National Weather Service reports that nearly 40 percent of the US population is currently under extreme heat advisories, the urgency to address climate change’s undeniable impact becomes evident.
During a White House briefing, President Biden said, “I don’t think anybody can deny the impact of climate change anymore.”
The Southwest has already been scorched by soaring temperatures this month, with predictions of relentless heat continuing throughout the summer. The Midwest and Northeast regions are also bracing for intense heat, with Washington expected to reach a sweltering 110 F (43.3 C) on Friday. July is anticipated to set a record as the hottest month in history.
President Biden’s ambitious plan aims to tackle the immediate effects of climate change, in response to mounting pressure from fellow Democrats and labor groups to protect the vulnerable. While long-term measures are already in place, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting clean energy technology, they may take time to yield results as global temperatures continue to rise.
Addressing the pressing need for heat protection, Biden called upon Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su to issue the heat hazard alert, emphasizing the importance of ensuring heat-related safeguards for workers as temperatures soar. Tragically, federal statistics reveal that extreme heat conditions have claimed the lives of 436 workers since 2011, solidifying heat as the number one weather-related killer.
The Biden administration plans to invest $7 million in developing advanced weather prediction capabilities to anticipate and prepare for extreme weather events like heatwaves. Furthermore, $152 million will be allocated to enhance drinking water infrastructure and boost climate resilience in states like California, Colorado, and Washington.
Recognizing the vital role of green spaces in mitigating heat, Biden announced that the US Forest Service will grant $1 billion to towns and cities to facilitate tree-planting initiatives aimed at repelling excessive heat.
In a virtual format, Biden was joined by leaders from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration, along with the mayors of Phoenix and San Antonio—cities heavily impacted by the heatwave.
Phoenix itself has experienced an unprecedented heatwave, witnessing a staggering 27 consecutive days of temperatures exceeding 110 F (43.3C), shattering previous records.
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