The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced its participation in the National Integrated Heat Health Information System (NIHHIS), joining forces with over 25 federal agencies to address the dangers of extreme heat and climate change. This collaboration aims to build awareness and develop solutions to mitigate the negative impacts of extreme heat on communities nationwide.
HUD Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman emphasized the urgency of this initiative, stating, “The dangerous impact of extreme heat on American communities – particularly hurting our most vulnerable residents, is undeniable. HUD is working to create resilient, sustainable, healthy, and inclusive communities for all to ensure the households we serve are protected from extreme heat hazards.”
The launch of the first-ever National Heat Strategy for 2024-2030 marks a significant step in this direction. The strategy outlines a comprehensive framework for agencies to devise science-based solutions addressing extreme heat challenges exacerbated by climate change.
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights the severity of this issue, noting that approximately 1,220 people die annually from extreme heat in the United States. The year 2023 recorded the hottest August on record, underscoring the escalating threat posed by rising temperatures.
The National Heat Strategic Plan builds upon recent federal initiatives such as the National Resilience Strategy, National Climate Resilience Framework, and National Resilience Guidance. These efforts aim to integrate resilience into planning and management practices across federal government operations and throughout the country.
Under the Biden-Harris Administration, HUD has intensified its focus on supporting families, vulnerable individuals, and the housing market against extreme heat's adverse effects. In July, HUD held its inaugural Insurance Summit where industry executives, government leaders, nonprofits, and academics discussed strategies to manage rising property insurance costs affecting communities nationwide.
In June, HUD issued new guidance to Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) aimed at reducing extreme heat risks for residents. This guidance offers relief during severe or extreme heat periods by enabling PHAs to increase utility allowances or waive cooling surcharges. These measures facilitate air conditioning use during high-temperature events while also helping lower home energy costs for public housing residents.
Additionally, in April HUD launched an Extreme Heat webpage serving as a resource hub for community actions and funding opportunities related to climate resilience projects.
HUD remains committed to ensuring that all Americans have access to sustainable and healthy homes capable of withstanding growing threats from extreme heat and climate change.
