How do climate change and extreme weather events affect health?
Reducing the risk of harm where people live, work, and play is important for people’s physical and mental well-being and for preventing new health problems. Many systems and services are critical to health and safety, including medical care, buildings, energy, food and water, transportation, and natural environments. A good quality of life for everyone across New York State starts with good health and safe places to thrive.
Changes to the climate pose many threats to people’s health and safety across the state. A wide range of climate hazards can directly and indirectly influence people’s health and safety, including:
- More extreme heat events.
- Changes in the amount and duration of precipitation, including heavy rainfall and drought.
- More frequent and intense storms.
- Sea level rise.
For more information about how your surroundings can affect your health, visit New York State Climate Impacts.
