On the anniversary of the deadliest climate-related disaster in our region’s history, King County leaders announced the development of its first-ever Extreme Heat Mitigation Strategy.
Exactly one year ago, triple-digit temperatures swept the Pacific Northwest, claiming the lives of 38 people in western Washington in just three days’ time.
The deadly heatwave in June 2021, combined with growing concerns for climate change and extreme heat, has prompted King County leaders to act, creating the region’s first Extreme Heat Mitigation Strategy. “I consider this extreme heat event to be a disturbing reality check,” said Dr. Jeff Duchin, health officer for Public Health —Seattle & King County.
“Perhaps the worst news of all — from a health perspective — is that not only do we expect more heatwaves from here on out, but the heat waves we do see will be longer and more intense,” Dr. Duchin said.