This week, a severe heatwave in the US Southwest left residents grappling with intense temperatures, and unfortunately, some students were among those affected.
At least three students were hospitalized with heat-related injuries following a cross-country meet in Riverside, California, east of Los Angeles.
On Tuesday afternoon, emergency responders evaluated five students for general weakness, with three being transported to the hospital for further care.
The mercury soared to 102°F (38.8°C) that day, marking just one example of the extreme heat sweeping through the region.
California, along with much of the Southwest, is in the grip of a punishing heatwave, with forecasts predicting record-breaking fall temperatures.
California signs laws to protect students from extreme weather, following tragic heat-related incidents.San Francisco recorded its hottest day of the year on Tuesday, while Phoenix saw its hottest October 1st ever. Experts have warned that these conditions pose a significant threat to life and property.
The heat is also taking a toll on California’s school system, where about 20% of public schools lack air conditioning.
In cities like Long Beach, the situation is even more dire, with many schools relying on outdated or no climate control systems. Last month, Long Beach hit a blistering high of 109°F.
Recognizing the health risks to students, California’s lawmakers are pushing for new protections.
Dr. Akilah Weber, a state assembly member, introduced a bill to safeguard students from extreme weather, noting that climate change is forcing such protections beyond farm workers and into classrooms.
Research has shown that extreme heat negatively impacts student learning.
In response to recent tragedies like the death of 12-year-old Yahushua Robinson, Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation requiring schools to adopt guidelines to protect students during extreme heat.
However, the state recently vetoed a bill that would have provided funding to help schools improve their facilities to combat climate risks.