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Heat
kills by pushing the human body beyond its
limits. In extreme heat and high humidity,
evaporation is slowed and the body must work
extra hard to maintain a normal temperature.
Most heat disorders occur because the victim
has been overexposed to heat or has over-exercised
for his or her age and physical condition.
Older adults, young children, and those who
are sick or
overweight are more likely to succumb
to extreme heat.
Conditions
that can induce heat-related illnesses
include stagnant atmospheric conditions
and poor
air quality. Consequently, people
living in urban areas may be at greater
risk from the effects of a
prolonged heat
wave than those living in rural areas.
Also, asphalt and concrete store heat longer
and gradually release heat at night, which
can produce higher nighttime temperatures
known as the
“urban heat island effect.”
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