New research highlights the overlooked danger of extreme heat to workers cleaning up after hurricanes, as seen in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl in Texas. The study, from the University of Georgia and published in GeoHealth, notes that heat caused as many deaths as the storm itself in that case. Climate change is exacerbating these risks by intensifying storms and prolonging hot weather.
The days following a hurricane may seem calm with sunny skies, but hidden dangers persist, particularly for recovery workers facing extreme heat. A study by researchers at the University of Georgia, published in the journal GeoHealth, examined the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, which struck Texas in July 2024. The storm directly killed 14 people through drowning or falling debris, while another 14 deaths occurred due to heat afterward, though it remains unclear how many victims were disaster-response workers.
Lead author Andrew Grundstein emphasized the scale of the issue: “You had as many deaths associated with heat as you did from these direct effects. So I think heat really is a problem we need to think about, especially when power goes out.” The research focused on workers performing strenuous outdoor tasks, such as clearing debris and restoring power. These crews often come from cooler regions, making them less acclimated to the sweltering southern heat during hurricane season.
Standard heat safety measures include regular rest breaks, hydration, and monitoring individuals with health conditions. However, Grundstein noted challenges in emergencies: “But the problem with emergency response, right — that doesn’t always lend itself to easily giving people rest breaks when people’s lives can be at stake.” Power outages further complicate recovery by eliminating access to air conditioning.
The study recommends tailored strategies, like deploying extra staff for shift rotations and using cooling clothing. It also warns that climate change worsens the threat: hotter summer days in places like Houston are becoming more common, and the warm season is extending into peak hurricane months of September and October. Grundstein added, “If you have more hot days, that certainly would increase the risk. If the season expands, the warm season, that could also potentially increase the risk to people.”
Emergency managers and organizations must prioritize heat risks to ensure workers can complete their vital tasks without added peril.
