The Bureau of Climate and Environmental Health (BCEH), in collaboration with the Office of Preparedness and Emergency Management (OPEM), the Office of Local and Regional Health (OLRH) and the Office of Health Equity (OHE), is launching the 2025 Heat Education and Alert Tools (HEAT) response initiative to help communities across Massachusetts prepare for and respond to the growing public health risks of extreme heat.
As climate change drives more frequent and prolonged periods of high temperatures, this initiative uses a data-driven approach to deliver timely alerts and practical guidance to health officials, clinicians, and community partners. Building on lessons learned in 2024, the initiative introduces a new Unhealthy Heat threshold, a statewide Unhealthy Heat Forecasting Tool, and updated educational resources to increase awareness, support preparedness, and strengthen our collective response to extreme heat events.
Understanding the Unhealthy Heat Threshold
The unhealthy heat threshold in Massachusetts is when temperatures reach 85°F or higher for three days in a row. There is an increase in heat-related emergency room visits when this happens.
DPH's Unhealthy Heat Forecast page helps people prepare to stay safe from the heat. This tool shows real-time temperature forecasts and when high temperatures pose a higher risk for vulnerable groups. These include children, older adults, and people with chronic medical conditions.
An Unhealthy Heat Alert helps healthcare professionals, local governments, organizations, and residents take action to prepare for a heat wave.
First is the Worst:
The first heat wave of the season is the most dangerous. People need time to adapt to higher temperatures. Until our bodies adapt, we are at greater risk of heat-related illnesses. That’s why it’s critical to prepare early. Planning ahead for extreme heat can help protect your patients and community members stay cool and hydrated.
H.E.A.T. Resources and Alerts:
- Extreme Heat Page: A central hub for resources, tools, and guidance to stay safe during periods of extreme heat.
- Unhealthy Heat Forecast Page: Track upcoming heat conditions in your community with a 7-day forecast and color-coded risk levels.
- Updated Extreme Heat Resource Guide: A comprehensive guide for local health, clinicians, and agencies to plan for and respond to extreme heat. (PDF) (DOCX)
- Targeted DPH Health and Homeland Alert Network (HHAN) H.E.A.T. Alerts: Timely alerts delivered through the HHAN to help healthcare professionals, local health departments, and other interested parties respond during extreme heat events.
- Expanded Fact Sheets: Clear, targeted guidance for specific settings and populations vulnerable to extreme heat.