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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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