Oregonians in the Portland metro area now have a new tool: a climate dashboard that tracks how climate change affects public health. This dashboard, covering Multnomah, Washington, and Clackamas counties, focuses on five key health categories influenced by climate shifts. It examines how heatwaves, cold snaps, and poor air quality from wildfires impact health.
Brendon Haggerty from the Multnomah County Health Department explains that the dashboard helps identify important health indicators linked to climate change. “We chose indicators based on research showing connections between health problems and environmental issues,” he says.
The dashboard monitors several health impacts, from extreme temperatures and air quality to infectious diseases and mental health. With climate change worsening due to fossil fuel use, Oregonians are increasingly feeling its effects. Vulnerable communities, including low-income groups and people of color, face the harshest consequences. In particular, farmworkers and individuals with existing health problems are at greater risk during severe weather events.
Sarah Present, a health officer in Clackamas County, highlights that understanding these risks allows public health officials to target resources effectively. In 2021, a heatwave led to a spike in hospital visits, with nearly 100 heat-related deaths reported, primarily in Multnomah County. Hospital visits during hot weather have remained elevated ever since.
Interestingly, the dashboard also tracks mental health, revealing a strong link between climate events and increased anxiety and stress. Many residents reported feeling helpless, fearful, and deeply saddened by extreme weather. This connection underscores the broader impact of climate change on overall well-being.
Furthermore, the dashboard recently began collecting data on infectious diseases carried by insects. As temperatures rise, pests like mosquitoes and ticks could become more common in the Pacific Northwest, a region where such diseases have historically been rare. For example, Tacoma, Washington, recently documented its first locally acquired malaria case.
Keeping an eye on this information is vital. Haggerty believes the dashboard can help people understand their vulnerabilities and make informed choices during extreme weather. “Many don’t see themselves as at risk. But in early heat events, we aren’t acclimated yet, making everyone susceptible,” he warns.
In light of escalating environmental challenges, staying informed is crucial for the health of all Oregonians. You can explore the regional climate and health dashboards for more insights on how to safeguard your health and navigate the changing climate landscape.
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Health | Climate | Data | Science & Environment | Portland | Multnomah County | Clackamas County | Washington County
