Washington, D.C. – A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights a disturbing rise in heat‑related deaths across the United States, with many victims succumbing to extreme indoor temperatures during summer heatwaves. The report cites the tragic case of 78‑year‑old Maria Gonzales of Phoenix, whose body temperature reached 106°F before emergency responders arrived, underscoring the lethal risk of inadequate cooling in homes. Experts point to aging infrastructure, lack of affordable air‑conditioning, and power outages as key factors. The CDC urges vulnerable populations—especially the elderly, low‑income families, and those with chronic illnesses—to seek cooling centers, stay hydrated, and check on neighbors during extreme heat events. Federal and state agencies are being pressed to expand assistance programs for home retrofits and subsidized electricity bills to combat the growing public health crisis.
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