Proposed Rules Would Protect Workers From Heat, Top Weather-Related Cause of Death in U.S.

More than 90 million Americans are under heat advisories this week. Many may not realize it but heat is the leading cause of weather-related death in the U.S. The triple-digit temperatures in the days ahead come as President Biden unveils long-awaited regulations designed to protect workers from excessive heat. Stephanie Sy discussed more with Hayley Smith of The Los Angeles Times.

• Amna Nawaz:

  More than 90 million Americans are under heat advisories this week.

  In the West, where a record-breaking heat wave is expected to be long-lasting, firefighters are working to extinguish several major wildfires, forcing thousands of Californians to evacuate.

  All of this comes as President Biden unveiled long-awaited regulations designed to protect workers from excessive heat.

  Stephanie Sy has more — Stephanie.

• Stephanie Sy:

  Amna, many people may not realize it, but heat is the leading cause of weather-related death in the U.S.

  As many brace for triple digits in the days ahead, protection from extreme heat is top of mind for many.

  Hayley Smith is an environmental reporter with The Los Angeles Times and has been covering all this closely.

  Hayley, it’s good to see you.

  It seems every July more heat records are shattered, and yet I have seen a lot of superlative language around what’s facing Central and Northern California this week. Why is this heat wave so concerning?