Climate Change and Human Health Risks in Your State

In Alabama, sea levels are rising one inch every eight years. This and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Alabama residents include:

• Higher temperatures and other weather changes will increase levels of ozone pollution (a component of smog), increasing health risks like asthma-related hospital visits. Learn how you can take action to protect against poor air quality, such as:
  • Prepare: Check news or airnow.gov for the local air quality index.
  • Respond: Reduce outdoor activity when pollution levels are high.


• More intense hurricanes can disrupt infrastructure, which can prevent access to health care. Learn how you can take action to manage infrastructure disruptions, such as:
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such boiling water before use.
  • Respond: Keep power generators outside to avoid fire and carbon monoxide risks.


• Increasing levels of harmful algae and bacteria in coastal waters may make eating fish and shellfish less safe. These contaminants cause infections or stomach illnesses. Learn how you can take action to ensure food safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Check for health department notices before fishing or harvesting shellfish.
  • Respond: Keep seafood chilled to less than 38°F. Discard perishable food if your refrigerator has lost power for longer than four hours.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Alaska has warmed twice as fast as the rest of the nation. This and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Alaskans include:

• Permafrost (soil that stays frozen all year) will thaw, and resulting runoff may pollute food and drinking water sources. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.


• Increasing levels of harmful algae and bacteria in coastal waters may make eating fish and shellfish less safe. These contaminants cause infections or stomach illnesses. Learn how you can take action to ensure food safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Check for health department notices before fishing or harvesting shellfish.
  • Respond: Keep seafood chilled to less than 38°F. Discard any perishable food if your refrigerator has lost power for longer than four hours.


• Large wildfires are occurring more often, and wildfire seasons are lasting longer. This increases health risks such as those related to smoke inhalation and evacuations. Learn how you can take action to protect against wildfires, such as:
  • Prepare: Follow your doctor's instructions for managing existing lung diseases and medicines.
  • Respond: Check local news and reports for information on air quality, visibility, and evacuation orders.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Arizona has warmed about 2°F in the last century. This and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Arizona residents include:

• Cases of valley fever, a fungal infection, have increased in the Southwest. Climate change and drought may help spread this disease into new areas. Learn how you can take action to prevent valley fever, such as:
  • Prepare: Learn about valley fever's symptoms and risks.
  • Prepare: Talk to your doctor about antifungal treatment if diagnosed.


• The Southwest is likely to face more frequent and intense droughts. Droughts limit the availability and quality of drinking water. Navajo communities in Arizona already face a lack of water for their households and farming. Learn how you can take action to protect against droughts, such as:
  • Prepare: Reduce water use. For example, use low-flow faucets.
  • Prepare: Be aware that droughts may reduce the quality of drinking water from private wells.


• Large wildfires are occurring more often, and wildfire seasons are lasting longer. This increases health risks such as smoke inhalation or burns. In 2013, the Yarnell Hill Fire killed 19 firefighters. Learn how you can take action to protect against wildfires, such as:
  • Prepare: Keep your air-conditioning filter clean, and close the unit's fresh air intake.
  • Respond: Check local news and reports for information on air quality, visibility, and evacuation orders.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

In Arkansas, annual rainfall has increased. This and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Arkansas residents include:

• Higher temperatures and other weather changes will increase levels of ozone pollution (a component of smog), increasing health risks like asthma-related hospital visits. Learn how you can take action to protect against poor air quality, such as:
  • Prepare: Check news or airnow.gov for the local air quality index.
  • Respond: Reduce outdoor activity when pollution levels are high.


• More carbon dioxide causes some plants to produce more pollen. This will combine with longer growing seasons and other changes to result in more allergy and asthma episodes. Learn how you can take action to prevent asthma attacks and allergy symptoms, such as:
  • Prepare: Talk to a doctor and make an Asthma Action Plan.
  • Prepare: Clean and replace air conditioner filters often.


• Rising temperatures and changing rain patterns will lead to more mosquitoes. Mosquito bites can transmit diseases like West Nile virus to humans. Learn how you can take action to protect against mosquitoes, such as:
  • Prepare: Get rid of standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
  • Prepare: Keep window and door screens in good condition.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

California is warming – Southern California has warmed about 3°F in the last century. This and other climate impacts, like wildfire and drought, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Californians include:

• Rising temperatures and changing rain patterns will lead to more frequent or intense droughts. Droughts limit the availability and quality of drinking water. Learn how you can take action to protect against droughts, such as:
  • Prepare: Reduce water use. For example, use low-flow faucets.
  • Prepare: Be aware that droughts may reduce the quality of drinking water from private wells.


• More frequent and longer-lasting wildfires cause more emergency room visits for asthma, COPD, and other lung conditions. Learn how you can take action to protect against wildfires, such as:
  • Prepare: Follow your doctor's instructions for managing existing lung diseases and medicines.
  • Respond: Check local news and reports for information on air quality, visibility, and evacuation orders.


• Longer warm seasons mean that ticks that carry Lyme disease will emerge earlier in the season and move into new areas. Learn how you can take action to protect against ticks, such as:
  • Respond: Check for and remove ticks promptly after coming indoors. Remember that pets may bring ticks into the house.
  • Respond: Wear protective clothing (such as high boots and long sleeves and pants), and consider using insect repellent.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Most of Colorado has warmed 1°F or 2°F in the last century. This and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Colorado residents include:

• Large wildfires are occurring more often, and wildfire seasons are lasting longer. This increases health risks such as those related to smoke inhalation and evacuations. Learn how you can take action to protect against wildfires, such as:
  • Prepare: Keep your air-conditioning filter clean, and close the unit's fresh air intake.
  • Respond: Check local news and reports for information on air quality, visibility, and evacuation orders.


• More floods will occur in some mountain watersheds. Floods, like the 2013 Colorado Front Range Flood, can lead to illness, injury, and deaths. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Prepare: Ask someone out-of-state to act as a "family contact" in case your family is separated.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.


• The Southwest is likely to face more frequent and intense droughts. Droughts limit the availability and quality of drinking water. Learn how you can take action to protect against droughts, such as:
  • Prepare: Reduce water use. For example, use low-flow faucets.
  • Prepare: Be aware that droughts may reduce the quality of drinking water from private wells.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Connecticut has warmed 2°F to 3°F in the last century and heavy rain storms are happening more often. These and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Connecticut residents include:

• Higher temperatures and other weather changes will increase levels of ozone pollution (a component of smog), increasing health risks like asthma-related hospital visits. Learn how you can take action to protect against poor air quality, such as:
  • Prepare: Check news or airnow.gov for the local air quality index.
  • Respond: Reduce outdoor activity when pollution levels are high.


• Extreme weather events can disrupt infrastructure (damage to roads, bridges, or utilities). For example, a heat wave contributed to the 2003 Northeast blackout. Power outages have been linked to increased injuries, illnesses, and deaths. Learn how you can take action to manage infrastructure disruptions, such as:
  • Respond: Ask someone out-of-state to act as a "family contact" in case your family is separated.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.


• Intense hurricanes are becoming more common. Flooding associated with hurricanes (like Superstorm Sandy) increases the risk of injury and disease. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Prepare: Plan and practice your evacuation route. Evacuate when advised to do so.
  • Prepare: Ask someone out-of-state to act as a "family contact" in case your family is separated.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Delaware has warmed 2°F in the last century and the sea is rising about one inch every seven years. These and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Delaware residents include:

• Higher temperatures and other weather changes will increase levels of ozone pollution (a component of smog), increasing health risks like asthma-related hospital visits. Learn how you can take action to protect against poor air quality, such as:
  • Prepare: Check news or airnow.gov for the local air quality index.
  • Respond: Reduce outdoor activity when pollution levels are high.


• Extreme weather events can disrupt infrastructure (damage to roads, bridges, or utilities). For example, a heat wave contributed to the 2003 Northeast blackout. Power outages have been linked to increased injuries, illnesses, and deaths. Learn how you can take action to manage infrastructure disruptions, such as:
  • Respond: Avoid fallen power lines.
  • Respond: Keep power generators outside to avoid fire and carbon monoxide risks.


• Longer warm seasons mean that ticks that carry Lyme disease will emerge earlier in the season and will move north into new areas. Learn how you can take action to protect against ticks, such as:
  • Respond: Check for and remove ticks promptly after coming indoors. Remember that pets may bring ticks into the house.
  • Respond: Wear protective clothing (such as high boots and long sleeves and pants), and consider using insect repellent.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Heat waves, heavy downpours, and sea level rise pose growing challenges to many aspects of life in the District of Columbia. Examples of risks and actions for District of Columbia residents include:

• Higher temperatures will increase heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths. In D.C., the urban heat island effect will make heat events worse. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Drink plenty of water.
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.


• More intense rain can overwhelm combined sewer systems (where storm water and sewage share the same pipes). This can contaminate recreational water and drinking water sources, and lead to disease outbreaks. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.


• Increasing levels of harmful algae and bacteria in the Chesapeake Bay may make eating oysters less safe. These contaminants cause infections or stomach illnesses. Learn how you can take action to ensure food safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Check for health department notices before fishing or harvesting shellfish.
  • Respond: Keep seafood chilled to less than 38°F. Discard any perishable food if your refrigerator has lost power for longer than four hours.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to D.C.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

The sea around Florida is rising about one inch every decade and heavy rainstorms are becoming more severe. These and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Floridians include:

• More frequent, severe, or longer lasting extreme events can lead to stress, anxiety, and emotional trauma. Learn how you can take action to cope with post-disaster mental health impacts, such as:
  • Respond: Be aware of signs of withdrawal, depression, or other indications that someone needs help. Contact the Disaster Distress Helpline for crisis support.
  • Respond: Communicate openly to keep relationships healthy. Help children discuss their feelings after a traumatic event.


• Sea level rise and coastal droughts can cause saltwater to move into fresh groundwater, threatening drinking water supplies. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.


• Increasing levels of harmful algae and bacteria in coastal waters may make eating fish and shellfish less safe. These contaminants cause infections or stomach illnesses. Learn how you can take action to ensure food safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Check for health department notices before fishing or harvesting shellfish.
  • Respond: Keep seafood chilled to less than 38°F. Discard any perishable food if your refrigerator has lost power for longer than four hours.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

In Georgia, sea level is rising about one inch every decade. This and other climate impacts, like more very hot days, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Georgia residents include:

• Higher temperatures will increase heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths. In Atlanta and other large cities, the urban heat island effect will make heat events worse. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Drink plenty of water.
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.


• Higher temperatures and other weather changes will increase levels of ozone pollution (a component of smog), increasing health risks like asthma-related hospital visits. Learn how you can take action to protect against poor air quality, such as:
  • Prepare: Check news or airnow.gov for the local air quality index.
  • Respond: Reduce outdoor activity when pollution levels are high.


• Increasing levels of harmful algae and bacteria in coastal waters may make eating fish and shellfish less safe. These contaminants cause infections or stomach illnesses. Learn how you can take action to ensure food safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Check for health department notices before fishing or harvesting shellfish.
  • Respond: Keep seafood chilled to less than 38°F. Discard any perishable food if your refrigerator has lost power for longer than four hours.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Since the 1950s, sea surface temperatures around Hawaii have increased. This and other climate impacts, like decreased rainfall, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Hawaii residents include:

• Climate change will make coastal floods worse. These floods can cause injuries, deaths, and mental health impacts. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Prepare: Plan and practice your evacuation route. Evacuate when advised to do so.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.


• Extreme weather events can disrupt important infrastructure (such as utilities and roads). Pacific Islanders rely on ports and airports that are vulnerable to storms and sea level rise to receive food and other supplies. Learn how you can take action to manage infrastructure disruptions, such as:
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such boiling water before use.
  • Respond: Avoid fallen power lines.


• Increasing drought threatens traditional food sources such as taro and breadfruit. Learn how you can take action to protect against droughts, such as:
  • Prepare: Reduce water use. For example, use low-flow faucets.
  • Prepare: Be aware that droughts may reduce the quality of drinking water from private wells.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

In the Northwest, climate change is expected to double the annual amount of land burned by wildfires by the end of the century. This and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health in Idaho. Examples of risks and actions for Idaho residents include:

• Rising temperatures and changing rain patterns will lead to more mosquitoes. Mosquito bites can transmit diseases like West Nile virus to humans. Learn how you can take action to protect against mosquitoes, such as:
  • Prepare: Get rid of standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
  • Prepare: Keep window and door screens in good condition.


• More frequent and longer-lasting wildfires cause more emergency room visits for asthma, COPD, and other lung conditions. Learn how you can take action to protect against wildfires, such as:
  • Prepare: Keep your air-conditioning filter clean, and close the unit's fresh air intake.
  • Respond: Check local news and reports for information on air quality, visibility, and evacuation orders.


• More floods will occur in some mountain watersheds. Floods can lead to illness, injury, and deaths. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Prepare: Ask someone out-of-state to act as a "family contact" in case your family is separated.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Most of Illinois has warmed by about 1°F in the last century, and floods are becoming more frequent. These and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Illinois residents include:

• Higher temperatures and other weather changes will increase levels of ozone pollution (a component of smog), increasing health risks like asthma-related hospital visits. Learn how you can take action to protect against poor air quality, such as:
  • Prepare: Check news or airnow.gov for the local air quality index.
  • Respond: Reduce outdoor activity when pollution levels are high.


• More frequent and intense heavy rainfall increases the risk of floods. Floods can lead to injuries, deaths, and diseases. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Respond: Fill bathtubs, sinks, and plastic containers with clean water.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.


• Longer warm seasons mean that ticks that carry Lyme disease will emerge earlier in the season. Already common in the Midwest, Lyme disease infections will increase. Learn how you can take action to protect against ticks, such as:
  • Respond: Check for and remove ticks promptly after coming indoors. Remember that pets may bring ticks into the house.
  • Respond: Wear protective clothing (such as high boots and long sleeves and pants), and consider using insect repellent.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Most of Indiana has warmed about 1°F in the last century and floods are becoming more frequent. These and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Indiana residents include:

• Heat waves have become more common in the Midwest over the last 60 years. Higher temperatures will increase heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.
  • Respond: Check on elderly neighbors or anyone else who may need assistance.


• Longer warm seasons mean that ticks will emerge earlier in the season. Already common in the Midwest, Lyme disease infections will increase. Learn how you can take action to protect against ticks, such as:
  • Respond: Check for and remove ticks promptly after coming indoors. Remember that pets may bring ticks into the house.
  • Respond: Wear protective clothing (such as high boots and long sleeves and pants), and consider using insect repellent.


• More intense rain can overwhelm combined sewer systems (where storm water and sewage share the same pipes). Overflows into Lake Michigan are expected to increase 120% over the next 80 years. This could pollute recreational and drinking water sources. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Most of Iowa has warmed about 0.5°F to 1°F in the last century and floods are becoming more frequent. These and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Iowa residents include:

• Heat waves have become more common in the Midwest over the last 60 years. Higher temperatures will increase heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Drink plenty of water.
  • Respond: Check on elderly neighbors or anyone else who may need assistance.


• Extreme weather events, such as floods, can disrupt infrastructure (damage to roads, bridges, or utilities), which can prevent access to health care. Learn how you can take action to manage infrastructure disruptions, such as:
  • Respond: Keep power generators outside to avoid fire and carbon monoxide risks.
  • Respond: Discard perishable food if your refrigerator has lost power for longer than four hours.


• Longer warm seasons mean that ticks will emerge earlier in the season. Already common in the Midwest, Lyme disease infections will increase. Learn how you can take action to protect against ticks, such as:
  • Respond: Check for and remove ticks promptly after coming indoors. Remember that pets may bring ticks into the house.
  • Respond: Wear protective clothing (such as high boots and long sleeves and pants), and consider using insect repellent.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

In the past century, most of Kansas has warmed by at least 0.5°F and the soil is becoming drier. These, and other climate impacts, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Kansas residents include:

• Rising temperatures and changing rain patterns will lead to more frequent or intense droughts. Droughts limit the availability and quality of drinking water. Learn how you can take action to protect against droughts, such as:
  • Prepare: Reduce water use. For example, use low-flow faucets.
  • Prepare: Be aware that droughts may reduce the quality of drinking water from private wells.


• Droughts also make it easier for soil dust to become airborne. Dust storms lower air quality and cause breathing and visibility problems. Learn how you can take action to protect against dust storms, such as:
  • Respond: Seek shelter immediately.
  • Respond: Stay low, and cover eyes, nose, and mouth.


• Heavy downpours cause more frequent and severe floods. Floods, such as those that occurred during Thanksgiving in 2015, can lead to injuries, deaths, and diseases. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Respond: Fill bathtubs, sinks, and plastic containers with clean water.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

In Kentucky, average yearly rainfall is increasing. This and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Kentucky residents include:

• Climate change will increase average temperatures across the US. Higher temperatures have been linked with a higher risk of kidney stones. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Stay hydrated to help prevent kidney stones. Drink plenty of water.
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.


• Hotter temperatures increase the effects of air pollution and make pollen seasons longer. Learn how you can take action to prevent asthma attacks and allergy symptoms, such as:
  • Prepare: Talk to a doctor and make an Asthma Action Plan.
  • Respond: Limit time outdoors based on air quality reports, pollen and mold counts, and heat advisories.
  • Prepare: Clean and replace air conditioner filters often.


• Longer warm seasons mean that ticks that carry Lyme disease will emerge earlier in the season and move into new areas. Learn how you can take action to protect against ticks, such as:
  • Respond: Check for and remove ticks promptly after coming indoors. Remember that pets may bring ticks into the house.
  • Respond: Wear protective clothing (such as high boots and long sleeves and pants), and consider using insect repellent.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

In Louisiana, soils have become drier, annual rainfall has increased, and the sea level is rising. This and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Louisiana residents include:

• Intense hurricanes are becoming more common. Flooding associated with hurricanes (like Hurricane Katrina) increases the risk of injury and disease. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Prepare: Ask someone out-of-state to act as a "family contact" in case your family is separated.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.


• Warming temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico will increase the risk of ciguatera fish poisoning, the most frequently reported fish poisoning. Learn how you can take action to ensure food safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Check for health department notices before fishing or harvesting shellfish.
  • Respond: Keep seafood chilled to less than 38°F. Discard any perishable food if your refrigerator has lost power for longer than four hours.


• Sea level rise will increase the loss of tribal land, threatening traditional livelihoods and access to food. Learn how you can take action to cope with post-disaster mental health impacts, such as:
  • Respond: Be aware of signs of withdrawal, depression, or other indications that someone needs help. Contact the Disaster Distress Helpline for crisis support.
  • Respond: Communicate openly to keep relationships healthy. Help children discuss their feelings after a traumatic event.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Maine has warmed 3°F since 1900. This and other climate impacts, like rising sea levels, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Maine residents include:

• Higher temperatures will increase heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths. People without air conditioning are at risk in the Northeast where heat waves have been rare. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.
  • Respond: Check on elderly neighbors or anyone else who may need assistance.


• Sea level rise and coastal droughts can cause saltwater to move into fresh groundwater, threatening drinking water supplies. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.


• Longer warm seasons mean that ticks that carry Lyme disease will emerge earlier in the season and will move north into new areas. Learn how you can take action to protect against ticks, such as:
  • Respond: Check for and remove ticks promptly after coming indoors. Remember that pets may bring ticks into the house.
  • Respond: Wear protective clothing (such as high boots and long sleeves and pants), and consider using insect repellent.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Maryland has warmed 1°F to 2°F in the last century, and sea level around the state is rising about one inch every seven to eight years. These and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Maryland residents include:

• Although Baltimore is nearly 1,000 miles downwind from Quebec, forest fires near the Canadian city in 2002 led to an increase in Baltimore's air pollution. Breathing polluted air aggravates lung conditions. Learn how you can take action to prevent asthma attacks and allergy symptoms, such as:
  • Prepare: Talk to a doctor and make an Asthma Action Plan.
  • Prepare: Clean and replace air conditioner filters often.


• Increasing levels of harmful algae and bacteria in Chesapeake Bay may make eating oysters less safe. These contaminants cause infections or stomach illnesses. Learn how you can take action to ensure food safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Check for health department notices before fishing or harvesting shellfish.
  • Respond: Keep seafood chilled to less than 38°F. Discard any perishable food if your refrigerator has lost power for longer than four hours.


• More intense rain can overwhelm combined sewer systems (where storm water and sewage share the same pipes). This can contaminate recreational water and sources of drinking water, and lead to disease outbreaks. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Massachusetts has warmed by more than 2°F in the last century. This and other climate impacts, like more severe storms, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Massachusetts residents include:

• Higher temperatures will increase heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths. In Boston and other large cities, the urban heat island effect will make heat events worse. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Drink plenty of water.
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.


• More intense rain can overwhelm combined sewer systems (where storm water and sewage share the same pipes). This can contaminate recreational water and sources of drinking water, and lead to disease outbreaks. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.


• Longer warm seasons mean that Lyme disease-carrying ticks will emerge earlier in the season and move north into new areas. Learn how you can take action to protect against ticks, such as:
  • Respond: Check for and remove ticks promptly after coming indoors. Remember that pets may bring ticks into the house.
  • Respond: Wear protective clothing (such as high boots and long sleeves and pants), and consider using insect repellent.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Most of Michigan has warmed 2°F to 3°F in the last century. This and other climate impacts, like more frequent heavy rainstorms, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Michigan residents include:

• Higher temperatures will increase heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths. In Detroit and other large cities, urban heat island effect will make heat events worse. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Drink plenty of water.
  • Respond: Check on elderly neighbors or anyone else who may need assistance.


• Extreme weather events, such as floods, can disrupt infrastructure (damage to roads, bridges, or utilities), which can prevent access to health care. Learn how you can take action to manage infrastructure disruptions, such as:
  • Respond: Avoid fallen power lines.
  • Respond: Discard perishable food if your refrigerator has lost power for longer than four hours.


• Ticks will emerge earlier in the season. Already common in the Midwest, Lyme disease infections will increase. Learn how you can take action to protect against ticks, such as:
  • Respond: Check for and remove ticks promptly after coming indoors. Remember that pets may bring ticks into the house.
  • Respond: Wear protective clothing (such as high boots and long sleeves and pants), and consider using insect repellent.


• For Ojibwe peoples, rising temperatures and ecosystem impacts threaten culturally and economically important species like wild rice and moose.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Minnesota has warmed 1°F to 3°F in the last century. This and other climate impacts, like more frequent heavy rainstorms, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Minnesotans include:

• Heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths will increase. People without air conditioning are at risk in Northern states where heat waves have been rare. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Drink plenty of water.
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.


• Lyme disease-carrying ticks will emerge earlier in the season and move north into new areas. Learn how you can take action to protect against ticks, such as:
  • Respond: Check for and remove ticks promptly after coming indoors. Remember that pets may bring ticks into the house.
  • Respond: Wear protective clothing (such as high boots and long sleeves and pants), and consider using insect repellent.


• More intense rain can overwhelm combined sewer systems (where storm water and sewage share pipes). More frequent overflows threaten water quality in the Great Lakes, which provide drinking water to more than 40 million people. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.


• For Ojibwe peoples, rising temperatures and ecosystem impacts threaten culturally and economically important species like wild rice and moose.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

In Mississippi, sea levels are rising one inch every seven years and soils have become drier. These and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Mississippi residents include:

• Climate change will increase average temperatures across the US. Higher temperatures have been linked with a higher risk of kidney stones. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Stay hydrated to help prevent kidney stones.
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.


• More intense hurricanes can disrupt infrastructure (damage to roads, bridges, or utilities), which can prevent access to health care. Learn how you can take action to manage infrastructure disruptions, such as:
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such boiling water before use.
  • Respond: Avoid fallen power lines.
  • Respond: Keep power generators outside to avoid fire and carbon monoxide risks.


• Increasing levels of harmful algae and bacteria in coastal waters may make eating fish and shellfish less safe. These contaminants cause infections or stomach illnesses. Learn how you can take action to ensure food safety, such as:
  • Respond: Check for health department notices before fishing or harvesting shellfish.
  • Prepare: Keep seafood chilled to less than 38°F. Discard any perishable food if your refrigerator has lost power for longer than four hours.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Most of Missouri has warmed 0.5°F to 1°F in the last century and floods are becoming more frequent. These, and other climate impacts, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Missourians include:

• Higher temperatures will increase heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths. In Kansas City, St. Louis, and other large cities, urban heat island effect will make heat events worse. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Drink plenty of water.
  • Respond: Check on elderly neighbors or anyone else who may need assistance.


• More frequent and intense heavy rainfall increases the risk of floods. Floods can lead to injuries, deaths, and diseases. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Prepare: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such boiling water before use.
  • Respond: Avoid fallen power lines.


• Longer warm seasons mean that ticks will emerge earlier in the season. Already common in the Midwest, Lyme disease infections will increase. Learn how you can take action to protect against ticks, such as:
  • Respond: Check for and remove ticks promptly after coming indoors. Remember that pets may bring ticks into the house.
  • Respond: Wear protective clothing (such as high boots and long sleeves and pants), and consider using insect repellent.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Most of Montana has warmed about 2°F in the last century and heat waves are becoming more common. These, and other climate impacts, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Montana residents include:

• Higher temperatures will increase heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths. People without air conditioning are at risk in Northern states where heat waves have been rare. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.
  • Respond: Check on elderly neighbors or anyone else who may need assistance.


• More frequent and intense droughts make it easier for soil dust to become airborne. Dust storms lower air quality and cause breathing and visibility problems. Learn how you can take action to protect against dust storms, such as:
  • Respond: Seek shelter immediately.
  • Respond: Stay low, and cover eyes, nose, and mouth.


• Rising temperatures and changing rain patterns will lead to more mosquitoes. The northern Great Plains have become a hotspot for West Nile virus, a mosquito-carried disease. Learn how you can take action to protect against mosquitoes, such as:
  • Prepare: Get rid of standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
  • Prepare: Keep window and door screens in good condition.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

In the past century, most of Nebraska has warmed by at least 1°F. This and other climate impacts, like more intense rainfall, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Nebraska residents include:

• Higher temperatures will increase heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths. People without air conditioning are at risk in Northern states where heat waves have been rare. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Drink plenty of water.
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.


• More carbon dioxide causes some plants to produce more pollen. This will combine with longer growing seasons and other changes to result in more allergy and asthma episodes. Learn how you can take action to prevent asthma attacks and allergy symptoms, such as:
  • Respond: Limit time outdoors based on air quality reports, pollen and mold counts, and heat advisories.
  • Respond: Be aware that people and pets can carry pollen inside. Don't wear outdoor work clothes in the house.
  • Prepare: Clean and replace air conditioner filters often.


• More frequent and intense heavy rainfall increases the risk of floods. Floods can lead to injuries, deaths, and diseases. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Respond: Fill bathtubs, sinks, and plastic containers with clean water.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Nevada has warmed about 2°F in the last century. This and other climate impacts, like decreased flow in the Colorado River, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Nevada residents include:

• Higher temperatures will increase heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths. In Las Vegas and other large cities, urban heat island effect will make heat events worse. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Drink plenty of water.
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.


• Large wildfires are occurring more often, and wildfire seasons are lasting longer. This increases health risks such as those related to smoke inhalation and evacuations. Learn how you can take action to protect against wildfires such as:
  • Prepare: Keep your air-conditioning filter clean, and close the unit's fresh air intake.
  • Respond: Check local news and reports for information on air quality, visibility, and evacuation orders.


• The Southwest is likely to face more frequent and intense droughts. Droughts limit the availability and quality of drinking water. Learn how you can take action to protect against droughts, such as:
  • Prepare: Reduce water use. For example, use low-flow faucets.
  • Prepare: Be aware that droughts may reduce the quality of drinking water from private wells.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Most of New Hampshire has warmed 2°F to 3°F in the last century. This and other climate impacts, like more intense rainfall, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for New Hampshire residents include:

• Higher temperatures and other weather changes will increase levels of ozone pollution (a component of smog), increasing health risks like asthma-related hospital visits. Learn how you can take action to protect against poor air quality, such as:
  • Prepare: Check news or airnow.gov for the local air quality index.
  • Respond: Reduce outdoor activity when pollution levels are high.


• Intense hurricanes are becoming more common. Flooding associated with hurricanes (like Superstorm Sandy) increases the risk of injury and disease. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Respond: Fill bathtubs, sinks, and plastic containers with clean water.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.


• More intense rain can overwhelm combined sewer systems (where storm water and sewage share pipes). This can contaminate recreational water and sources of drinking water, and lead to disease outbreaks. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

New Jersey has warmed by about 3°F in the last century. This and other climate impacts, like more intense rainfall, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for New Jersey residents include:

• Hurricanes and storms like nor'easters may become more intense as the climate continues to warm. Storms may injure or kill people living in coastal flood zones. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Prepare: Ask someone out-of-state to act as a "family contact" in case your family is separated.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.


• Higher temperatures and other weather changes will increase levels of ozone pollution (a component of smog), increasing health risks like asthma-related hospital visits. Learn how you can take action to protect against poor air quality, such as:
  • Prepare: Check news or airnow.gov for the local air quality index.
  • Respond: Reduce outdoor activity when pollution levels are high.


• Longer warm seasons mean that ticks carrying Lyme disease will emerge earlier in the season and move into new areas. Learn how you can take action to protect against ticks, such as:
  • Respond: Check for and remove ticks promptly after coming indoors. Remember that pets may bring ticks into the house.
  • Respond: Wear protective clothing (such as high boots and long sleeves and pants), and consider using insect repellent.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Most of New Mexico has warmed at least 1°F in the last century. This and other climate impacts, like decreased water flow in the Colorado, Rio Grande, and other rivers, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for New Mexico residents include:

• Large wildfires are occurring more often, and wildfire seasons are lasting longer. This increases health risks, such as those related to smoke inhalation and evacuations. Learn how you can take action to protect against wildfires, such as:
  • Prepare: Keep your air-conditioning filter clean, and close the unit's fresh air intake.
  • Respond: Check local news and reports for information on air quality, visibility, and evacuation orders.


• Cases of valley fever, a fungal infection, have increased in the Southwest. Climate change and drought may help spread this disease into new areas. Learn how you can take action to prevent valley fever, such as:
  • Prepare: Learn about valley fever's symptoms and risks.
  • Prepare: Talk to your doctor about antifungal treatment if diagnosed.


• The Southwest is likely to face more frequent and intense droughts. Navajo communities in northwestern New Mexico already face a lack of water for their households and farming. Learn how you can take action to protect against droughts, such as:
  • Prepare: Reduce water use. For example, use low-flow faucets.
  • Prepare: Be aware that droughts may reduce the quality of drinking water from private wells.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Most of New York has warmed 1°F to 3°F in the last century and sea level is rising about one inch every decade. These, and other climate impacts, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for New York residents include:

• Higher temperatures will increase heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths. In New York City, the urban heat island effect will make heat events worse. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.
  • Respond: Check on elderly neighbors or anyone else who may need assistance.


• Extreme weather events like Superstorm Sandy can disrupt infrastructure (damage to roads, bridges, or utilities. A heat wave contributed to the 2003 Northeast blackout, which was linked to increased injuries, illnesses, and deaths. Learn how you can take action to manage infrastructure disruptions, such as:
  • Respond: Keep power generators outside to avoid fire and carbon monoxide risks.
  • Respond: Discard perishable food if your refrigerator has lost power for longer than four hours.


• More intense rain can overwhelm combined sewer systems (where storm water and sewage share pipes). This can contaminate recreational water and sources of drinking water, and lead to disease outbreaks. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Most of North Carolina has warmed 0.5°F to 1°F in the last century and the sea is rising about one inch every decade. These, and other climate impacts, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for North Carolina residents include:

• Higher temperatures and other weather changes will increase levels of ozone pollution (a component of smog), increasing health risks like asthma-related hospital visits. Learn how you can take action to protect against poor air quality, such as:
  • Prepare: Check news or airnow.gov for the local air quality reports.
  • Respond: Reduce outdoor activity when pollution levels are high.


• Intense hurricanes are becoming more common. Flooding associated with hurricanes increases the risk of injury and disease. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Prepare: Plan and practice your evacuation route. Evacuate when advised to do so.
  • Respond: Fill bathtubs, sinks, and plastic containers with clean water.


• Sea level rise and coastal droughts can cause saltwater to move into fresh groundwater, threatening drinking water supplies. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

In the past century, most of North Dakota has warmed about 2°F. This and other climate impacts, like more intense rainstorms, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for North Dakota residents include:

• More carbon dioxide causes some plants to produce more pollen. This will combine with longer growing seasons and other changes to result in more allergy and asthma episodes. Learn how you can take action to prevent asthma attacks and allergy symptoms, such as:
  • Respond: Limit time outdoors based on air quality reports, pollen and mold counts, and heat advisories.
  • Prepare: Clean and replace air conditioner filters often.


• More frequent and intense rainfall increases health risks for people in flood-prone areas. After the 1997 Red River flood, more babies were born pre-term and with low birth weight. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Respond: Fill bathtubs, sinks, and plastic containers with clean water.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.


• Rising temperatures and changing rain patterns will lead to more mosquitoes. The northern Great Plains have become a hotspot for West Nile virus. Learn how you can take action to protect against mosquitoes, such as:
  • Prepare: Get rid of standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
  • Prepare: Keep window and door screens in good condition.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Most of Ohio has warmed by about 1°F in the last century. This and other climate impacts, like more frequent floods, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Ohio residents include:

• Heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths will increase. In Cincinnati and other large cities, urban heat island effect will make heat events worse. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Drink plenty of water.
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.


• More carbon dioxide causes some plants to produce more pollen. This will combine with longer growing seasons and other changes to result in more allergy and asthma episodes. Learn how you can take action to prevent asthma attacks and allergy symptoms, such as:
  • Respond: Limit time outdoors based on air quality reports, pollen and mold counts, and heat advisories.
  • Prepare: Clean and replace air conditioner filters often.


• Increased levels of harmful algae and bacteria will threaten sources of drinking water. A 2014 bloom of blue-green algae in Lake Erie near a Toledo water plant caused nearly 500,000 residents to lose access to drinking water. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Oklahoma soils have become drier and rainfall events have become more intense. These, and other climate impacts, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Oklahoma residents include:

• Higher temperatures will increase heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths. In Oklahoma City and other large cities, the urban heat island effect will make heat events worse. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.
  • Respond: Check on elderly neighbors or anyone else who may need assistance.


• More frequent and intense droughts make it easier for soil dust to become airborne. Dust storms lower air quality and cause breathing and visibility problems. Learn how you can take action to protect against dust storms, such as:
  • Respond: Seek shelter immediately.
  • Respond: Stay low, and cover eyes, nose, and mouth.


• More intense rain increases health risks for people in flood-prone areas. Floods, such as those seen in May 2015, can lead to injuries, diseases, and deaths. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Respond: Fill bathtubs, sinks, and plastic containers with clean water.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Over the past century, Oregon has warmed about 2°F. This and other climate impacts, like more frequent wildfires and warming oceans, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Oregon residents include:

• Large wildfires are occurring more often and wildfire seasons are lasting longer. This increases health risks, such as those related to smoke inhalation and evacuations. Learn how you can take action to protect against wildfires, such as:
  • Prepare: Keep your air-conditioning filter clean, and close the unit's fresh air intake.
  • Respond: Check local news and reports for information on air quality, visibility, and evacuation orders.


• Sea level rise and coastal droughts can cause saltwater to move into fresh groundwater, threatening drinking water supplies. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.


• Harmful algal blooms that contaminate shellfish have become more frequent along the Pacific Northwest coast and estuaries. Rising temperatures will lengthen the season for harmful blooms in the Puget Sound. This especially affects tribes that traditionally depend on shellfish harvests. Learn how you can take action to ensure food safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Check for beach closures or health department notices before swimming, fishing, or harvesting shellfish.
  • Respond: Keep seafood chilled to less than 38°F. Discard any perishable food if your refrigerator has lost power for longer than four hours.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Pennsylvania has warmed more than 0.5°F in the last century and heavy rainstorms are more frequent. These and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Pennsylvanians include:

• More intense rain can overwhelm combined sewer systems (where storm water and sewage share pipes). This can contaminate recreational water and sources of drinking water and lead to disease outbreaks. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.


• Higher temperatures and other weather changes will increase levels of ozone pollution (a component of smog), increasing health risks like asthma-related hospital visits. Learn how you can take action to protect against poor air quality, such as:
  • Prepare: Check news or airnow.gov for local air quality reports.
  • Respond: Reduce outdoor activity when pollution levels are high.


• Longer warm seasons mean that ticks carrying Lyme disease will emerge earlier in the season and move into new areas. Learn how you can take action to protect against ticks, such as:
  • Respond: Check for and remove ticks promptly after coming indoors. Remember that pets may bring ticks into the house.
  • Respond: Wear protective clothing (such as high boots and long sleeves and pants), and consider using insect repellent.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Heat waves, heavy downpours, and sea level rise pose growing challenges to many aspects of life in Puerto Rico. Examples of risks and actions for Puerto Ricans include:

• Rising temperatures and changing rain patterns will lead to more mosquitoes. Mosquito bites can transmit diseases like West Nile virus and chikungunya to humans. Learn how you can take action to protect against mosquitoes, such as:
  • Prepare: Get rid of standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
  • Prepare: Keep window and door screens in good condition.


• More intense hurricanes are becoming more common. (Extreme weather events can disrupt infrastructure (damage to roads, bridges, or utilities). Learn how you can take action to manage infrastructure disruptions, such as:
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such boiling water before use.
  • Respond: Avoid fallen power lines.


• Sea level rise and storm surge threaten low-lying areas, which are increasingly prone to flooding during tropical storms. Storm surge and flooding associated with hurricanes increases the risk of injury and disease. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Respond: Fill bathtubs, sinks, and plastic containers with clean water.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to Puerto Rico.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Rhode Island has warmed about 3°F since the year 1900 and heavy rainstorms are more frequent. These, and other climate impacts, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Rhode Island residents include:

• Higher temperatures and other weather changes will increase levels of ozone pollution (a component of smog), increasing health risks like asthma-related hospital visits. Learn how you can take action to protect against poor air quality, such as:
  • Prepare: Check news or airnow.gov for the local air quality index.
  • Respond: Reduce outdoor activity when pollution levels are high.


• Intense hurricanes are becoming more common. Flooding associated with hurricanes, like Superstorm Sandy, increases the risk of injury, disease, stress, anxiety, and emotional trauma. Learn how you can take action to cope with post-disaster mental health impacts, such as:
  • Respond: Be aware of signs of withdrawal, depression, or other indications that someone needs help. Contact the Disaster Distress Helpline for crisis support.
  • Respond: Communicate openly to keep relationships healthy. Help children discuss their feelings after a traumatic event.


• More intense rain can overwhelm combined sewer systems (where storm water and sewage share pipes). This can contaminate recreational water and sources of drinking water and lead to disease outbreaks. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

South Carolina has warmed by 0.5°F to 1°F in the last century and sea level is rising about one inch every decade. These, and other climate impacts, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for South Carolina residents include:

• Climate change will increase average temperatures across the US. Higher temperatures have been linked with a higher risk of kidney stones. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Stay hydrated to help prevent kidney stones. Drink plenty of water.
  • Respond: Check on elderly neighbors or anyone else who may need assistance.


• More intense hurricanes are becoming more common. Flooding associated with hurricanes increases the risk of injury and disease. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Prepare: Ask someone out-of-state to act as a "family contact" in case your family is separated.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.


• Sea level rise and coastal droughts can cause saltwater to move into fresh groundwater, (where storm water and sewage share pipes). threatening drinking water supplies. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

In the past century, most of South Dakota has warmed by 1°F to 2°F. This and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for South Dakota residents include:

• Rising temperatures and changing rain patterns will lead to more mosquitoes. The northern Great Plains have become a hotspot for West Nile virus, a mosquito-carried disease. Learn how you can take action to protect against mosquitoes, such as:
  • Prepare: Get rid of standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
  • Prepare: Keep window and door screens in good condition.


• Higher temperatures will increase heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths. People without air conditioning are at risk in Northern states where heat waves have been rare. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.


• More frequent and intense droughts make it easier for soil dust to become airborne. Dust storms lower air quality and cause breathing and visibility problems. Learn how you can take action to protect against dust storms, such as:
  • Respond: Seek shelter immediately.
  • Respond: Stay low, and cover eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Respond: When driving, be alert for sudden changes in visibility. Pull off the roadway, or reduce speed.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Annual precipitation in Tennessee has increased approximately 5 percent since the first half of the 20th century. This and other climate impacts mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Tennessee residents include:

• Climate change will increase average temperatures across the US. Higher temperatures have been linked with a higher risk of kidney stones. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Stay hydrated to help prevent kidney stones.
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.


• More carbon dioxide causes some plants to produce more pollen. This will combine with longer growing seasons and other changes to result in more allergy and asthma episodes. Learn how you can take action to prevent asthma attacks and allergy symptoms, such as:
  • Prepare: Talk to a doctor and make an Asthma Action Plan.
  • Respond: Limit time outdoors based on air quality reports, pollen and mold counts, and heat advisories.


• Rising temperatures and changing rain patterns will lead to more mosquitoes. Mosquito bites can transmit diseases like West Nile virus to humans. Learn how you can take action to protect against mosquitoes, such as:
  • Prepare: Get rid of standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
  • Prepare: Keep window and door screens in good condition.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Most of Texas has warmed between 0.5°F and 1°F in the past century. In eastern Texas, average annual rainfall is increasing, yet the soil is becoming drier. These, and other climate impacts, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Texans include:

• Higher temperatures will increase heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths. In Dallas and other large cities, the urban heat island effect will make heat events worse. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Drink plenty of water.
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.


• More frequent and intense heavy rainfall increases the risk of floods. Floods, such as those in Houston in 2016, can lead to injuries, deaths, and diseases. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Respond: Fill bathtubs, sinks, and plastic containers with clean water.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.


• Rising temperatures and changing rain patterns will lead to more mosquitoes. Mosquito bites can transmit diseases like West Nile virus and dengue fever to humans. Learn how you can take action to protect against mosquitoes, such as:
  • Prepare: Get rid of standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
  • Prepare: Keep window and door screens in good condition.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Heat waves, heavy downpours, and sea level rise pose growing challenges to many aspects of life in the US Virgin Islands. Examples of risks and actions for Virgin Island residents include:

• Rising temperatures and changing rain patterns will lead to more mosquitoes. Mosquito bites can transmit diseases like West Nile virus and chikungunya to humans. Learn how you can take action to protect against mosquitoes, such as:
  • Prepare: Get rid of standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
  • Prepare: Keep window and door screens in good condition.


• More intense hurricanes are becoming more common. Extreme weather events can disrupt infrastructure (damage to roads, bridges, or utilities). Learn how you can take action to manage infrastructure disruptions, such as:
  • Respond: Fill bathtubs, sinks, and plastic containers with clean water.
  • Respond: Avoid fallen power lines.


• Sea level rise and storm surge threaten low-lying areas, which are increasingly prone to flooding during tropical storms. Storm surge and flooding associated with hurricanes increases the risk of injury and disease. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Respond: Fill bathtubs, sinks, and plastic containers with clean water.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Utah has warmed about 2°F in the last century. This and other climate impacts, like wildfire and drought, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Utah residents include:

• Higher temperatures will increase heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths. In Salt Lake City and other large cities, urban heat island effect will make heat events worse. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Drink plenty of water.
  • Respond: Check on elderly neighbors or anyone else who may need assistance.


• Large wildfires are occurring more often, and wildfire seasons are lasting longer. This increases health risks such as those related to smoke inhalation and evacuations. Learn how you can take action to protect against wildfires, such as:
  • Prepare: Keep your air-conditioning filter clean, and close the unit's fresh air intake.
  • Respond: Check local news and reports for information on air quality, visibility, and evacuation orders.


• The Southwest is likely to face more frequent and intense droughts. Droughts limit the availability and quality of drinking water. Navajo communities in southeastern Utah already face a lack of water for their households and farming. Learn how you can take action to protect against droughts, such as:
  • Prepare: Reduce water use. For example, use low-flow faucets.
  • Prepare: Be aware that droughts may reduce the quality of drinking water from private wells.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Vermont has warmed by more than 2°F in the last century and heavy rainstorms are more frequent. These, and other climate impacts, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Vermont residents include:

• More carbon dioxide causes some plants to produce more pollen. This will combine with longer growing seasons and other changes to result in more allergy and asthma episodes. Learn how you can take action to prevent asthma attacks and allergy symptoms, such as:
  • Prepare: Clean and replace air conditioner filters often.
  • Respond: Limit time outdoors based on air quality reports, pollen and mold counts, and heat advisories.


• More frequent and intense heavy rainfall increases the risk of floods. Floods can lead to injuries, deaths, and diseases. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Prepare: Ask someone out-of-state to act as a "family contact" in case your family is separated.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.


• Longer warm seasons mean that ticks carrying Lyme disease will emerge earlier in the season and will move north into new areas. Learn how you can take action to protect against ticks, such as:
  • Respond: Check for and remove ticks promptly after coming indoors. Remember that pets may bring ticks into the house.
  • Respond: Wear protective clothing (such as high boots and long sleeves and pants), and consider using insect repellent.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Most of Virginia has warmed 1°F in the last century, and sea level is rising one to two inches every decade. These, and other climate impacts, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Virginia residents include:

• Higher temperatures and other weather changes will increase levels of ozone pollution (a component of smog), increasing health risks like asthma-related hospital visits. Learn how you can take action to protect against poor air quality, such as:
  • Prepare: Check news or airnow.gov for the local air quality index.
  • Respond: Reduce outdoor activity when pollution levels are high.


• More carbon dioxide causes some plants to produce more pollen. This will combine with longer growing seasons and other changes to result in more allergy and asthma episodes. Learn how you can take action to prevent asthma attacks and allergy symptoms, such as:
  • Respond: Limit time outdoors based on air quality reports, pollen and mold counts, and heat advisories.
  • Prepare: Clean and replace air conditioner filters often.


• More intense hurricanes can disrupt infrastructure (damage to roads, bridges, or utilities), which can prevent access to health care. Learn how you can take action to manage infrastructure disruptions, such as:
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such boiling water before use.
  • Respond: Avoid fallen power lines.
  • Respond: Keep power generators outside to avoid fire and carbon monoxide risks.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Over the past century, most of Washington has warmed 1°F to 2°F. This and other climate impacts, like more intense wildfires, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Washington residents include:

• Large wildfires are occurring more often, and wildfire seasons are lasting longer. This increases health risks such as those related to smoke inhalation and evacuations. Learn how you can take action to protect against wildfires, such as:
  • Prepare: Keep your air-conditioning filter clean, and close the unit's fresh air intake.
  • Respond: Check local news and reports for information on air quality, visibility, and evacuation orders.


• More floods will occur in some mountain watersheds. Floods can lead to illness, injury, and deaths. Learn how you can take action to protect against floods, such as:
  • Respond: Fill bathtubs, sinks, and plastic containers with clean water.
  • Respond: Avoid driving or walking in or near flood waters, even after the flood or during cleanup.


• Harmful algal blooms that contaminate shellfish have become more frequent along the Pacific Northwest coast and estuaries. Rising temperatures will lengthen the season for harmful blooms in the Puget Sound. This especially affects tribes that traditionally depend on shellfish harvests. Learn how you can take action to ensure food safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Check for beach closures or health department notices before swimming, fishing, or harvesting shellfish.
  • Respond: Keep seafood chilled to less than 38°F. Discard any perishable food if your refrigerator has lost power for longer than four hours.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

Most of West Virginia has warmed 0.5°F to 1°F in the last century and heavy rainstorms are becoming more frequent. These, and other climate impacts, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for West Virginia residents include:

• Higher temperatures and other changes will increase levels of ozone pollution (a component of smog), increasing health risks like asthma-related hospital visits. Learn how you can take action to protect against poor air quality, such as:
  • Prepare: Check news or airnow.gov for local air quality reports.
  • Respond: Reduce outdoor activity when pollution levels are high.


• Longer warm seasons mean that ticks carrying Lyme disease will emerge earlier in the season and move into new areas. Learn how you can take action to protect against ticks, such as:
  • Respond: Check for and remove ticks promptly after coming indoors. Remember that pets may bring ticks into the house.
  • Respond: Wear protective clothing (such as high boots and long sleeves and pants), and consider using insect repellent.


• More intense rain can overwhelm combined sewer systems (where storm water and sewage share pipes). This can contaminate recreational water and sources of drinking water and lead to disease outbreaks. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

In the past century, most of Wisconsin has warmed about 2°F and heavy rainstorms are becoming more frequent. These, and other climate impacts, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Wisconsin residents include:

• More intense rain can overwhelm combined sewer systems (where storm water and sewage share pipes). This can contaminate recreational water and sources of drinking water. Learn how you can take action to ensure drinking water safety, such as:
  • Prepare: Have an emergency water supply ready for your family (1 gallon per person/pet per day).
  • Respond: Check the news for tap water safety notices, such as boiling water before use.


• Heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths will increase. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Drink plenty of water.
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.


• Longer warm seasons mean that ticks will emerge earlier in the season. Already common in the Midwest, Lyme disease infections will increase. Learn how you can take action to protect against ticks, such as:
  • Respond: Check for and remove ticks promptly after coming indoors. Remember that pets may bring ticks into the house.
  • Respond: Wear protective clothing (such as high boots and long sleeves and pants), and consider using insect repellent.


• For Ojibwe peoples, rising temperatures and ecosystem impacts threaten culturally and economically important species like wild rice and moose.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.

In the past century, most of Wyoming has warmed by 1°F to 3°F and heat waves are becoming more common. These, and other climate impacts, mean increasing risks to health. Examples of risks and actions for Wyoming residents include:

• Higher temperatures will increase heat-related illnesses, hospital visits, and deaths. Learn how you can take action to protect against heat waves, such as:
  • Respond: Drink plenty of water.
  • Respond: Watch for signs of dehydration and overheating, especially in children.
  • Respond: Check on elderly neighbors or anyone else who may need assistance.


• More frequent and intense droughts make it easier for soil dust to become airborne. Dust storms lower air quality and cause breathing and visibility problems. Learn how you can take action to protect against dust storms, such as:
  • Respond: Seek shelter immediately.
  • Respond: Stay low, and cover eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Respond: When driving, be alert for sudden changes in visibility. Pull off the roadway, or reduce speed.


• Rising temperatures and changing rain patterns will lead to more mosquitoes. (Mosquito bites can transmit diseases like West Nile virus to humans. Learn how you can take action to protect against mosquitoes, such as:
  • Prepare: Get rid of standing water where mosquitoes can breed.
  • Prepare: Keep window and door screens in good condition.

Access a PDF of this information and other resources relevant to your state.
Learn more in the USGCRP Climate and Health Assessment.