In many parts of the United States, and across the world, extreme weather events are becoming more common. Events – like heat waves, floods, droughts, and wildfires – are getting more intense, happening more often, and causing more destruction. We know that these extreme weather events can harm people’s health, from babies and children to adults and the elderly. So, it is critical that we develop ways to protect communities from these health risks and recover quickly when these weather events happen.
At ECO-Health, our scientists study how wildfire smoke and high temperatures, and their combination, harm our health during all phases of our lives. We especially focus on California communities that experience things like poverty, hunger, and poor neighborhood conditions. We also work with community members to develop interventions that can reduce the health risks that come from wildfire smoke and extreme heat while also addressing community experiences and needs.
Our Research Approach
ECO-Health offers workshops, trainings, and mentoring for its scientists on how to conduct research on extreme weather events and health. We teach about topics like environmental epidemiology, machine learning, implementation science, intervention development, and community-engaged research methods. We also provide training and mentorship for our community partners in order to strengthen our ability to work with one another.
Why it's Important to Study Extreme Weather Events
Extreme weather events are increasing in frequency and intensity worldwide, posing growing risks to human health, infrastructure, and ecosystems. In California, residents experience some of the most severe manifestations of these changes, including devastating wildfires and prolonged heat waves. Research conducted across the state provides critical insights into how these events affect public health and the environment. By studying extreme weather in California’s diverse settings, scientists help to inform strategies for mitigating environmental health risks—both locally and across the globe.
Heat Waves are a Public Health Crisis
Heat waves are the leading weather-related cause of death globally, underscoring their profound significance for public health. In California, these events affect communities across all climate zones—from coastal regions to inland valleys and deserts. Health risks arise not only from absolute temperature but also from deviations above typical local conditions. As heat waves grow more frequent, intense, and prolonged, they threaten to strain public health systems statewide. Understanding these evolving hazards today can help California communities prepare and adapt to a hotter future.
Wildfires are a Public Health Crisis
Wildfires represent another escalating environmental health threat in California. Increasingly frequent and severe fire seasons have led to widespread smoke events that are reversing decades of progress in improving air quality. Wildfire smoke contains a complex mixture of pollutants that may be even more hazardous than typical urban particulate matter, contributing to respiratory, cardiovascular, and other health issues. Understanding the health impacts of wildfire smoke is essential for developing effective interventions and policies.