Contributors: Nobi Kennedy, Bamidele Osamika, Leah Ross, Mitch Singstock, Maddie Chera, Kelly St Charles, Van Sullivan, and Viviana Saldarriaga

This piece is a part of Green Umbrella’s 2024 PSA Campaign on climate health impacts, highlighting a recent report completed with Scioto Analysis which was supported in part by bi3, HealthPath, and the Interact for Health Data for Equity grant.

Food is life. Although the USDA recommends a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, grains, and lean proteins to reduce disease risk, the food systems that support these recommendations face unprecedented challenges that threaten both our health and the environment.

In our consumer-driven world, the connection between food and the land is often lost. What we eat and how we cultivate food directly influence climate change, which in turn affects crop yield and health. Recognizing this intricate relationship is essential to developing solutions for a sustainable future for all.

Climate Change’s Impacts on Global Food Systems

According to the CDC, “climate change is likely to threaten food production, quality, prices, and distribution systems on a global scale.” Changes in rainfall patterns, erratic and severe weather, and increased weeds and pests reduce crop yields. Farmers and food producers face rising production costs due to greater reliance on pesticides and fertilizers, leading to higher prices. Distributors and retailers, impacted by increased wholesale costs and expanded cold storage needs, also raise prices. All parties along the food supply chain are expected to struggle to secure affordable insurance and other services in the face of unpredictable and extreme weather.

Increases in food cost may worsen the quality of dietary intakes, exacerbating health inequities. Rises in overall global temperatures caused by greenhouse gasses further exacerbate the strains on our food safety and nutrition. Although higher levels of CO₂ can stimulate growth and carbohydrate production in some plants, they also often reduce the level of proteins and minerals in crops, making food less nutritious. Warm environments provide perfect conditions for bacterial growth, leading to higher risks of foodborne illnesses through pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella.    

More than 3 billion people depend on ocean waters for a significant source of their protein. Climate change means more than just warmer temperatures, which is damaging enough – causing melting ice, coastal erosion, aquatic habitat destruction, deoxygenation, and more. Higher temperatures concentrate harmful chemicals in both land and water, such as mercury levels in seafood. Ocean acidification, which is the reduction of ocean water pH levels and driven by increased atmospheric CO₂, stresses marine ecosystems and threatens aquatic life. Climate events put people at risk of becoming environmental refugees – those who are forced to leave their homes or communities because of climate change. The changing climate may cause populations to migrate. Climate migrants bring unique dietary habits and food cultures, creating new challenges for local food systems to adapt to dietary preferences and needs.

Closer to Home: Impacts on Local and Regional Food Systems

Food insecurity is a growing concern fueled by climate events like droughts and floods. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, “variations in water supply and extreme temperatures are two of the biggest factors that directly and indirectly impact agricultural production.” Increasingly difficult to predict and growing in frequency, extreme weather patterns disrupt crop production and lead to food shortages. In 2024, Ohio and surrounding regions experienced a historic drought, with the Hocking River in Athens recording its lowest flow since 1930. Rising temperatures, particularly in winter, disrupt the freeze-thaw cycle critical for agriculture, leading to flooding, increased weeds and pests, and other challenges.

The impacts of extreme weather swings are complex. For example, heavy rainfalls can delay planting, increase soil compaction, deplete oxygen levels, and cause root disease. Conversely heavy rains can benefit local ecosystems, restore water levels in reservoirs, and support agriculture. Agricultural interventions are necessary to adapt to environmental conditions because weather variability is a major cause of crop failure.

As crop yields decline, food insecurity and food inequity will worsen, disproportionately impacting vulnerable populations. According to Feeding America, a 2023 study concluded that “children in Hamilton County under the age of 18 years were more likely to be food insecure (16.9%) compared to the general population (10.9%), as were Black (25%) and Hispanic (17%) residents compared to White (9%) residents.” Neighboring states such as Indiana and Kentucky have similar rates of food insecurity, averaging 13.9% and 15.7% respectively. Declines in food production, coupled with rising costs, can prompt consumers toward cheaper food items, which are often highly processed and less nutritious, exacerbating health issues and inequities.

Food Systems Driving Climate Change

What we eat and how our food is produced has a significant impact on the environment. In 1860, Cincinnati was a pork production powerhouse, notoriously known as Porkopolis. Residents grew frustrated with the pollutants released by the slaughterhouse industry, noting, “Deer Creek, often running red with slaughter, was a stinking cesspool”. Complaints about slaughterhouse odors led to the relocation of many abattoirs to Brighton and the Mill Creek Valley.

Today, food production accounts for about 25% of all global greenhouse gas emissions. Across the country, cattle and other meat farming contributes most significantly to greenhouse gas production and global deforestation among food production. Research suggests that if Americans were to replace beef with beans as a source of protein, we would meet Paris climate goals. Recognizing that space can and should be held for culturally significant foods that are made with animal products, times they can be replaced effectively with a plant-based alternative make a difference. A plant-based diet is not only environmentally smart, but studies have shown that plant-based diets are better for your heart and your brain, and they lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and dementia, particularly in older individuals. By transitioning to a plant-based diet, you can lower your carbon footprint from food by 70%.

Reducing food waste is another impactful way to lower food-related emissions. Food waste accounts for 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. You can cut your food waste by saving leftovers, composting organic materials, and buying food that does not perish as quickly, like frozen vegetables. You can also reduce the distance your food travels and the need for extra packaging and cold storage by buying food at farmers markets. Buying local food has the additional benefit of supporting local farmers and food producers. Becoming involved in a community garden or shopping at local farmers’ markets are excellent ways to ensure that the food you eat is nutritious and low-emission while building relationships, food access, and greenspace in your neighborhood.

Making Necessary Changes

Institutions, businesses, and organizations can all support healthy food choices and sustainable food systems in our communities. For example, the City of Cincinnati currently has a goal to reduce wasted food by 50% by 2030 while eliminating all food deserts across Cincinnati, an ambitious and exciting goal that will benefit city residents and can serve as a blueprint for other governments to follow.

By encouraging healthier choices with sustainability in mind, institutions can support food systems that are better for people and the planet. They can increase access to alternative sources of protein such as soy, beans, and meat substitutes to accommodate more dietary preferences.  The Greater Cincinnati Regional Food Policy Council, hosted by Green Umbrella, works with partners like the Kentucky Food Action Network (KFAN), National Farm to School Network (NSFN), Hamilton County Public Health, and more to provide guidance and resources for policies, guidelines, and programs your institution can adopt.

An easy and excellent way to shrink an organization’s carbon footprint is reducing waste. Methods include finding ways to minimize excess food by being conscientious of food ordering and having a plan for leftovers; donating extra food or ingredients to local food kitchens (like La Soupe or Last Mile Food Rescue); and composting food waste instead of sending it to landfill (our Common Orchard Project and Queen City Commons are both excellent composting resources). The Greater Cincinnati Regional Food Policy Council and partners at Hamilton County R3Source recently discussed ways to measure, track, and divert your food waste in our “Food Systems Circularity Series” for Green Umbrella and Food Policy Council members.

Learn More

Learn more about Food Access and climate change by viewing a recording of our latest Climate Health Webinar.

Resources

• Shaping Policy For a Shifting Climate: The Role of Food Policy Councils
• Climate Changes Health: Food and Agriculture
• The Impacts Of Climate Change On Human Health In The United States
• Climate Change and Food Security: Health Impacts in Developed Countries
• The impact of climate change on food systems, diet quality, nutrition, and health outcomes: A narrative review
• Center for Climate, Health, and the Global Environment
• Climate Impacts on Human Health
• Food and Waterborne Diarrheal Disease
• Food Security
• Climate change and nutrition-associated diseases

Infographics – download and share!

Contributors: Nobi Kennedy, Bamidele Osamika, Leah Ross, Mitch Singstock, Anna Parnigoni, Van Sullivan, and Viviana Saldarriaga 

This piece is a part of Green Umbrella’s 2024 PSA Campaign on climate health impacts, highlighting a recent report completed with Scioto Analysis which was supported in part by bi3, HealthPath, and the Interact for Health Data for Equity grant.

Water is the most vital part of human life, making up 60-75% of a human body’s weight. A loss of just 4% of total water leads to dehydration, and a loss of 15% can be fatal. Because clean, safe, and accessible water is vital, polluted water is a threat to community health. 

The Toxic Truth

In Ohio, only 86% of its rivers meet the state water quality standards. The Ohio River is the main source of water for more than five million people in the Greater Cincinnati region alone, but in 2020, the EPA considered the Ohio River Basin one of the most toxic watersheds in the nation. The Ohio River has significant water pollution issues due to a combination of industrial activities, agricultural runoff, and inadequate waste management. Discharge of industrial waste has moved into the Ohio River watershed from other states, causing the highest burden of toxic discharges than any other watershed in the country. Many of these discharges are permitted by law and the impact of the pollutants are widespread.

Navigating Water Pollution, From Source to Waterway

Water pollution occurs when contaminants such as chemicals, pathogens, and organic or  inorganic substances get into water sources, rendering it unfit for consumption. Water pollution can occur in a number of ways, and because of the physical nature of water, pollution affects more than the area where it is released.

Point source pollution can be pinned to origins like factories, power plants, and other industries. This type of pollution is subject to federal regulations, unlike nonpoint source pollution. Nonpoint source pollution is released at a specific point and carried by stormwater runoff, precipitation, atmospheric deposition, drainage, and/or seepage to other locations. It can present as sediment, litter, bacteria, nutrients, metals, oils, grease, or chemicals that enter lakes and streams. Also known as “pollution runoff,” nonpoint source pollution is difficult to control as it stems from unregulated origins, such as flooding or runoff.

Agriculture and Water Health

Agricultural operations have a significant impact on water quality due to nonpoint source pollution. Management of animal waste, soil erosion, and soil nutrient loss; proper disposal of chemical pesticides; and working with local conservation partners ensure nonpoint source pollution can be monitored. Extreme climate events and poor agricultural management practices can lead to runoff carrying fertilizers, pesticides, and animal waste. This further degrades water quality, prompting algal blooms and harming aquatic life. 

Urban Impacts on Water Quality

Paved surfaces are impervious to water, making urban environments more susceptible to nonpoint source pollution. Pavement makes it easier for stormwater to pick up, absorb, and carry pollutants. Debris from construction, landscaping chemicals, and sewer overflow can contaminate natural waterways and city drinking water sources. Exacerbated by climate change, intense and more frequent downpours can overwhelm stormwater management systems and allow for contaminants to enter local water supplies.

Warmer Planet, Dirtier Waters

The rise in global overall temperatures contributes to higher levels of bacteria and toxins in our waterways, posing serious threats to public health. Increased water temperature can result in:

• Surges in bacteria like E. coli
• Increased concentrations of metals and other toxins in water
• Decreased oxygen available to aquatic life
• Algal blooms

Warming, along with more frequent and severe weather events, is deteriorating the quality of our water supplies and the ecological life that inhabit our waterways.

What You Can Do for Cleaner Water

Taking steps at home to secure clean water is essential for safeguarding against contaminants often found in tap water, particularly after an extreme weather event, such as flooding which could compromise drinking water. Utilizing water filters, whether installed at the faucet or within your refrigerator, can significantly reduce the presence of harmful substances. Additionally, boiling water is an effective method for eliminating many pathogens. Maintaining a clean watershed is a crucial component of community health. By preventing trash, medications, non-degradable items, and chemicals from entering our drainage systems, we help limit pollution and protect water quality. Citizens can take part by keeping litter and debris from collection in street drains and by throwing out medications instead of flushing them. Participating in local river cleanups and advocating for improved water quality standards can further contribute to the health and safety of our community.

Prioritizing Clean Water

Access to clean drinking water is fundamental to creating a livable, healthy environment and it is at the center of the climate crisis globally. Understanding both point source and non point source pollutants, cities can mitigate the effects of urban runoff by installing permeable surfaces, rain gardens or bioswales which can help absorb rain water. For urban areas where there is less natural landscape to filter contaminated waters, underground tanks and separation units with hydraulic buffers, physicochemical filtration and adsorption systems can offer innovative and realistic solutions to urban runoff challenges. The EPA issues drinking water standards to ensure that the tap water we consume is safe. Better management of industrial waste is also necessary to minimize water contamination. Corporations should be held accountable, as improper disposal of waste into our rivers threatens our ecosystem. As extreme weather, precipitation, and flooding become more prevalent, strategies to address climate impacts on water and investing in robust sewage and water treatment infrastructure is crucial. Advancements will not only mitigate the risk of disease but also enhance our capacity to cope with future environmental challenges. For further details, review these environmental insights and actions aimed at sustainable community practices.

Learn More

Learn more about Water Quality and climate change by viewing a recording of our latest Climate Health Webinar.

Resources

• EWG Tap Water Database

Federal assistance programs

• One Water Council
• Clean Water Act
• Water Quality Improvement grants (OH)
• Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Grant Program (OH)
• Brownfield Grants
• Emergency Watershed Protection

Infographics – download and share!

Contributors: Nobi Kennedy, Bamidele Osamika, Leah Ross, Mitch Singstock, Anna Parnigoni, Van Sullivan, and Viviana Saldarriaga 

This piece is a part of Green Umbrella’s 2024 PSA Campaign on climate health impacts, highlighting a recent report completed with Scioto Analysis which was supported in part by bi3, HealthPath, and the Interact for Health Data for Equity grant.

Autumn leaves and the season’s crisp air mark the start of football games, spiced treats, and the miserable effects of seasonal allergies for much of the United States. Seasonal allergies are often triggered by pollen, a fine powdery substance created by certain plants as part of their reproduction process. Pollen is spewed into the air and can appear from trees in the spring, grasses in the summer, and weeds – such as ragweed – in the fall. Pollen allergies have many health impacts, including sneezing, congestion, and runny nose, and can lead to asthma attacks. Although allergies are hereditary, climate change is supercharging pollen production, posing serious health complications for communities.

In Greater Cincinnati, ragweed pollen is a major cause of seasonal allergies between the months of August and November and tree-based pollen from a variety of species is a major cause in the spring. Kentucky bluegrass, an invasive species, releases pollen from spring to fall and is also a severe allergen in our region. Known by many other names such as smooth meadow grass or common meadow grass, bluegrass is one of the “most serious hay fever grasses in the northern areas of the US”. Indoor allergies, caused by allergens such as mold, are also widespread and often affect people living in older or low-income housing, communities of color, and the elderly.

The prevalence of allergies in our region is exacerbated by Greater Cincinnati’s unique geographic characteristics. The Ohio River valley is a basin, known for trapping allergens and making it harder to live with seasonal allergies or asthma.

The Role of Climate Change

Climate change is increasing pollen levels and making allergy seasons longer. This is because trees and plants are producing pollen sooner because warmer weather is starting earlier in the year. Flowering plants only produce pollen during the frost-free period, or the time between the last frost of spring and the first frost of fall, when air temperature drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. According to the EPA, this “frost-free season” is an indicator for climate change impacts; the average length of the frost-free in the contiguous 48 states has increased by more than two weeks since the beginning of the 20th century. This has correlated with a global rise in the prevalence of allergic disorders, which is expected to reach 4 billion in the 2050s as the world’s population is increasingly exposed to the burden of both indoor and outdoor pollutants and particulate matter. Further, the Greater Cincinnati region is two degrees F warmer than 50 years ago, resulting in significant changes to our seasons. Increased CO2 in the atmosphere boosts pollen release and, depending on plant species, changes its chemical composition, increasing potency and triggering stronger allergic reactions in people. Warm weather allows allergens to thrive, causing grass and tree flowering seasons to overlap.

Although pollen counts are lowest after a rainfall, major storms are shown to worsen asthma and allergic reactions in what is known as “Thunderstorm Asthma.” In 2016, the City of Melbourne, Australia experienced a “mass asthma event” where nearly 8,500 people were hospitalized with 9 fatalities following a severe thunderstorm. Thunderstorm Asthma is caused when hard rain saturates allergens and divides them into smaller particles that are then dispersed into the air during the storm. Often allergens are thwarted by the hairs in our noses before they can enter airways, but this saturation allows them to enter in larger quantities. This occurrence is currently rare in the United States, but a regional study conducted in Atlanta reported a 3% increase in emergency service use by people with asthma following thunderstorms. Climate change is increasing the likelihood of extreme weather events and unpredictable seasons with heavy rain storms, escalating the risk of Thunderstorm Asthma for populations in our region.

Indoor Allergens and Vulnerable Populations

While outdoor allergies can affect everyone, indoor allergens and pollutants are particularly dangerous given the amount of time we spend indoors. Common indoor sources of pollution are fossil fuel-powered appliances, secondhand smoke, and poor ventilation, which contribute to a higher concentration of pollutants indoors. Homes with mold, cockroaches, and dust mites make controlling allergies difficult. People living in older or low-income housing, communities of color, and the elderly are most at risk for allergic diseases and hazards.

During season changes or weather events, indoor allergens and their sources seek shelter inside homes and buildings. When homes are affected by flooding or damp conditions, molds such as Alternaria, typically found in decaying vegetation, Cladosporium, found on plants and spoiled food, and Stachybotrys chartarum or black mold, can begin to grow, causing allergic asthma, fungal infections, and other illness in humans. After a weather event and flooding, power and utilities also may be affected, allowing molds the perfect dark, moist environment to grow and spread through spores. Although mold spores are harmless, they can waft through the air to new surfaces and into homes through vents, and open windows. Spores require water to grow so it is imperative that moisture and humidity in buildings are controlled.

Strategies to Protect Your Health

Individual Strategies:

• Monitor Pollen Counts: Staying informed about high pollen days can help you plan outdoor activities. Follow resources like the Southwest Ohio Air Quality Agency for daily updates and the Allergy and Asthma Network.
• Control Indoor Allergens: Regular cleaning of carpets and bedding, using air purifiers, and reducing humidity can minimize indoor allergens. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America offers comprehensive tips for managing indoor air quality.
• Save the yardwork: Avoid mowing lawns, pulling weeds or gardening chores on high pollen days or wear a face mask
• Nip allergies in the bud: Try an over-the-counter remedy or see a physician for care.

Systems-Level Actions:

• Improving Indoor Air Quality: Requiring high-efficiency filters and portable air purification systems through policy change can significantly enhance air quality.
• Transitioning to Renewable Energy: By minimizing greenhouse gas emissions, institutions can contribute to better air quality and reduce the exacerbation of allergy symptoms. 
• Investing in Health and Housing Infrastructure: Upgrading housing and buildings can reduce mold and allergens, improving health outcomes for vulnerable population

Global Responses 

A recent invasion of ragweed prompted several European countries to develop and implement chemical and mechanical control methods to prevent further spread of the plant. Others created a legal standard for the concentration of ragweed seed in animal feed and seed mixtures for birds. Additionally, countries have explored the establishment of hypoallergenic greenspaces through careful selection of tree species and the deployment of a biological control agent against ragweed, such as certain species of insects. These actions could significantly reduce pollen and the effects of seasonal allergies. However, the introduction of these measures can have negative effects on ecosystems and biodiversity, damaging non-target crops and native plant species. Experts advise biological control methods should be approached with caution.

Learn More

As climate change continues to alter environmental conditions, we can expect allergy seasons to become more severe and prolonged. It is essential for local governments, communities and partners to work in tandem to alleviate these challenges, securing a healthier and more equitable future for all residents.

Managing allergies in Greater Cincinnati necessitates a comprehensive approach that includes personal management strategies and broader institutional initiatives. By addressing environmental factors, championing vulnerable populations, and implementing effective pollution reduction measures, we can foster a healthier living environment for everyone.

Learn more about allergies and climate change by viewing a recording of our latest Climate Health Webinar.

Resources

Infographics – download and share!

Contributors: Nobi Kennedy, Bamidele Osamika, Leah Ross, Mitch Singstock, Anna Parnigoni, Savannah Sullivan, and Viviana Saldarriaga 

This piece is a part of Green Umbrella’s 2024 PSA Campaign on climate health impacts, highlighting a recent report completed with Scioto Analysis which was supported in part by bi3, HealthPath, and the Interact for Health Data for Equity grant.

On a hot day in Sharonville in 2010, 16-year-old Elbert Jovante Woods, son of Ickey Woods, former All-Pro running back for the Cincinnati Bengals, came home complaining of tightness in his chest before collapsing and ultimately, passing away. Jovante was diagnosed with asthma at two years old but managed with an inhaler and preventative medicine. Despite the diagnosis, his family was not aware of the fatal risks associated with the illness, particularly on days with low air quality.

This tragic story is unfortunately not as uncommon as you might think in our region. As of 2024, the Greater Cincinnati area was ranked the 22nd worst city in the US for year-round average particulate pollution (also called PM, a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets in the air and a common measurement for air quality), and a recent American Lung Association report ranked the Cincinnati metro area 42nd worst in the nation for ozone pollution, also known as “smog.” Of a population of 2.3 million people in our region, there were over a reported 39,000 cases of pediatric asthma, 204,00 cases of adult asthma, and 173,000 cases of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in the last year. Since 1990, an average of 135 Ohio citizens die from asthma annually, with adult women, Black and low-income residents significantly more at risk.

These statistics are part of a global trend of concerns over air quality. According to a 2023 report by IQAir, only seven countries met the World Health Organization’s air quality guidelines for pollution in 2023. While the US has made progress improving air quality in recent decades, air pollution is still a driver of many serious health conditions both domestically and globally. In addition to asthma and COPD, small particles in greenhouse gases or smoke have the ability to travel through our lungs into our bloodstream, causing inflammation and damage leading to cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, and even adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Air pollution is responsible for nearly seven million premature deaths worldwide every year, and climate change is exacerbating these impacts. WVXU recently spoke to Ken Fletcher, advocacy director for the American Lung Association: “Climate change is making air pollution more likely to form and more difficult to clean up”, Fletcher reported. The majority of pollutants in our air are from the burning of fossil fuels. By burning fewer fossil fuels we not only improve our air, but also improve our health and the health of our community. Fletcher continued, “there are actions we can and must take to improve air quality.” Greater Cincinnati is taking these steps, but it’s important to understand the history of the air quality movement and who is most impacted by air quality risks to ensure an equitable regional approach to these challenges.

The Queen City’s Smokey Past

In the late 19th century, Cincinnati was an ambitious and thriving industrial center and a transportation hub for riverboats and railcars. As the industry grew, concerns about lingering smoke trapped in the valley and its impacts on community health heightened. This was not just a regional problem – during this time period, episodes of smog in cities like New York and London resulted in many deaths. Air pollution continued to be a significant problem through the middle of the 20th century. In late October of 1948, 20 people were asphyxiated and more than 7,000 became seriously ill as the result of severe air pollution over Donora, Pennsylvania.In addition to the 1969 Cuyahoga River fire in northern Ohio, the 1948 Donora incident led to the creation of the Air Pollution Control Act of 1955, which provided funds for federal research in air pollution.

Locally, as research began to unveil the sources of smoke and its negative toll on society, grassroots efforts to create and enforce smoke control ordinances in Cincinnati became more prevalent. These efforts, alongside state and nationwide organizing, led to the passing of the 1963 Clean Air Act, the first federal legislation regarding air pollution control. This was followed by the formation of the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and associated state-level offices in 1970. An Ohio statewide Air Quality Index was established in 1973, which alerted the public to poor air quality and when it might adversely affect the health of sensitive populations, and Kentucky and Indiana also implemented similar monitoring systems with the Kentucky Air Pollution Control Commission established in 1966 “requiring that all discharges of material into the air must be reported and registered with the Commission.” Indiana’s air quality fight found a voice alongside the Indiana women’s movement, targeting both coal-burning housewives, as well as industry at large. It became part of a larger movement of women concerned with air pollution across the country and helped make it a national issue during the 1970s. The EPA later created the national air quality standard in 1979.

History of Disparity

The negative health effects of air pollution hurt BIPOC communities and those with lower socioeconomic status the most. Decades of racist banking practices prevented people of color from securing fair financing which led to a legacy of divestment and socioeconomic inequality. One of these practices, called “redlining,” constrained who could get decent mortgages for good homes and where those homes could be built. This often resulted with Black residents and populations of color being forced to live in areas subject to environmental hazards, including in close proximity to toxic waste sites, dangerous drinking water, flood zones, and areas with higher rates of air and noise pollution. Planners of the interstate highway system routed highways directly, and sometimes purposefully, through Black and brown communities and industrial plants burdened neighborhoods, reducing community greenspace into brownfields and concentrating traffic pollution.

Additionally, people of color are disproportionately exposed to air pollution that is primarily caused by white Americans’ consumption habits. According to a 2019 article published in Science Daily, “white Americans consume greater amounts of pollution-intensive goods and services…[and] are responsible for the creation of more PM2.5 pollution than other racial groups.” Black Americans and Hispanic populations tend to live in locations with higher PM2.5 concentrations than white Americans, increasing their average daily exposure to the pollution.

“Energy Poverty” also holds a strong correlation to poorer air quality. According to the World Health Organization, populations suffering from energy poverty “lack the resources to obtain cleaner fuels and devices” due to cost or availability. This is prevalent for people in lower-income households and many in the Global South or low-income countries. In the US, energy poverty is driven more by factors of inequity. The cost of energy access pushes communities to alternative, often dangerous methods of heating and cooling or to forgo use at all, decreasing overall indoor air quality and increasing the need for metrics such as the energy equity gap to better understand the impact of disproportionate burdens on communities.

Our Next Breath

A combination of systems-level change and individual action must be implemented to confront these inequities and improve air quality for all in our region and beyond. Example actions you or your community can take today include:

• Running health assessments of new developments, and transitioning current developments to efficient buildings that burn less fossil fuels (local businesses and governments can complete an energy audit to identify ways to minimize energy waste through our Greater Cincinnati 2030 District)
• Advocate for stronger national limits on ozone pollution
• Reduce emissions from industrial plants and fossil fuels
  • Use renewable energy from sources like wind, solar, and electric power
  • Support public transportation
  • Advocate for stricter emissions regulations
• Prioritize sustainable affordable housing along public transit lines
• Engage and increase community leadership and buy-in
• Enforce indoor and outdoor air quality standards via policy change
• Subsidized clean energy and mass transportation methods
• Drive less and use more sustainable vehicles/walk, bike, or carpool to keep emissions down
• Transition appliances to renewable energy sources 
• Avoid wasting energy or electricity in the home or office
• Increase number of indoor plants and air purifiers if available

And here are some simple, effective ways to protect yourself:

• Check air pollution forecasts – Air Quality Hamilton County
• Avoid exercising when air quality is low and pollution levels are high

On days where air quality is poor:

• Reduce the time you spend outdoors
• Wear a mask to filter out fine particles
• Keep indoor quality healthy by keeping doors and windows shut
• Staying indoors with A/C or HEPA air filter

You can be an air quality leader in your community. Learn more and contact your local officials at the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, Hamilton County Department of Environmental Services, Kentucky Division of Air Quality, and Indiana Department of Environmental Management, Office of Air Quality.

Learn More

Watch the recording of the seventh installment of the Climate Health Public Service Announcement Webinar Series, Climate Change, Air Quality and Health Outcomes in Greater Cincinnati, on YouTube. Our guest speaker is Patrick H. Ryan, PhD and Professor at the University of Cincinnati.

Resources

Infographics – download and share

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Sources:

1. Air Quality Flyer
2. NFL Great Ickey Woods Shares His Son’s Asthma Story 
3. American Lung Association Most Polluted Cities 
4. Particle Pollution and Your Patients’ Health
5. Cincinnati Ranks 22nd Most Polluted City in the U.S., According to 2024 Annual ‘State of the Air’ Report.
6. Ohio Department of Health Data and Statistics.
7. 2023 IQAir World Air Quality Report
8. EPA: How Does PM Affect Human Health?
9. PBS: Why air quality is getting worse in many places and how it puts human health at risk
10. WVXU: Greater Cincinnati ranks poorly on the American Lung Association’s air quality report
11. EPA: Sources and Solutions: Fossil Fuels
12. https://www.hcdoes.org/281/History
13. National Ocean Service: Sources and Solutions: Fossil Fuels
14. National Park Service: The 1969 Cuyahoga River Fire
15. Evolution of the Clean Air Act
16. Progress in the Prevention and Control of Air Pollution in 1979: Annual Report of the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to the Congress of the United States
17. The sordid history of housing discrimination in America
18. A Brief History Of How Racism Shaped Interstate Highways
19. ‘The burden of the industrial past’: City aims to clean, re-imagine blighted, dangerous sites
20. US black and Hispanic minorities bear disproportionate burden from air pollution
21.  Energy poverty: effects on development, society, and environment Europe, Middle East and Africa
22. WHO: Equity impacts of air pollution
23. Unveiling Hidden Energy Poverty using the energy equity gap
24. Carnegie Mellon University: Hidden energy poverty revealed by energy equity gap
25. 10 Tips to Protect Yourself from Unhealthy Air
26. Protecting Yourself from Poor Air Quality

Contributors: Nobi Kennedy, Kelly Morton, Bamidele Osamika, Leah Ross, Mitch Singstock, Savannah Sullivan, and Viviana Saldarriaga

This piece is part of Green Umbrella’s 2024 PSA Campaign on climate health impacts, highlighting a recent report done with Scioto Analysis which was supported in part by a bi3, HealthPath, and Interact for Health Data for Equity Grant.

When storms start brewing and the skies darken over Southern Ohio and Northern Kentucky, you know it’s time to hunker down. Living in our region comes with its fair share of weather extremes, from torrential rains to tornados to the infamous polar vortex closing out otherwise mild winters, the shifting climate is making unpredictable weather even more volatile. Although our region is seen as a resource-rich climate haven, its history with extreme weather is as deep as the Ohio River. 

What Is Extreme Weather?

Extreme weather refers to unexpected, unusual, severe, or unseasonal weather conditions. These phenomena are not just inconvenient; they can have profound impacts on our livelihoods and health. The number of extreme weather events in Ohio has increased over the past years and is expected to increase further due to shifting climate. In the Greater Cincinnati region, our most formidable threats are increased tornados, floods, heat waves, and freezing temperatures. 

According to the Ohio Environmental Council climate change-related events could cost Ohio municipalities up to $6 billion by 2050. According to NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information, from 1980-89, there were 33l significant weather events for the decade, averaging 3 events per year for about $21.8B in damages per year. Between 2021-2023, we experienced 66 events total or 22 events yearly, totaling damages of around 147.8B per year. 

Tornado Alley:

The state of Ohio was the tornado leader for 2024 through April, outpacing typical locations in the South. According to the National Weather Service. 35 tornadoes touched down in Ohio in 2024 as of spring, a dozen more than our state’s year average of 23. Since then, Ohio has moved to 5th place with 49 total record twisters according to the Cincinnati Enquirer.  Two things fuel severe tornadoes: Heat and moisture. Severe storms activated by warm weather and record rainfall were pushed into the Ohio Valley by this year’s storm track spanning the Southern Rockies to the Great Lakes, which also had unusually warm Great Lakes water temperatures this year.

Rising Water:

Changing climate is increasing the frequency of floods in Ohio. According to the Ohio EPA, over the last half-century, average annual precipitation in most of the Midwest has increased by 5 to 10 percent. But rainfall during the four wettest days of the year has increased about 35 percent, and the amount of water flowing in most streams during the worst flood of the year has increased by more than 20 percent. For more information on flooding in our region and how to protect yourself, check out Green Umbrella’s blog on Flooding and Health Impacts.

Sweltering Heat and Deep Freeze: 

As climate change progresses and intensifies, swings in weather and extreme temperatures will become more common in Greater Cincinnati. Regarding heat, Cincinnati is expected to experience at least 7 days of “feels like” temperatures of 106 degrees. For more information on Heat in our region, check out Green Umbrella’s website for the blog entitled “Bringing the Heat: How Rising Temperatures Affect Our Health.” 

Cold fronts are not uncommon in our region but freezes out of season wreak havoc on our natural environment and food production. Our communities are dependent on the integrity of our food distribution systems. An extreme weather event can spell disaster for crops, the agriculture industry, supply chains, and the community, particularly those who live in rural areas. Communities can become more resilient by investing in climate-smart agricultural practices, drawing from the wisdom of indigenous communities. By planting more varied and weather-resistant crops, we can continue to thrive in a warmer, wet climate.

Health Effects of Extreme Weather:

When we talk about extreme weather, we’re not just discussing power outages and property damage. These events have dire health consequences. 

Floods can lead to waterborne diseases, heatwaves can cause heatstroke and exacerbate chronic illnesses, the trauma from surviving a natural disaster can lead to mental health issues including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). They disrupt the physical and social infrastructure people and communities that depend on these services. Physical safety during floods, tornadoes, and other extreme events is imperative as these events can often cause severe injuries or death. Drownings during floods and injuries from flying debris during tornadoes are common. Our understanding of the impacts of climate disasters on mental health is growing as psychologists find connections between our climate and our minds and feelings. The American Public Health Association notes that up to 54% of adults and 45% of children experience depression post-disaster. Anxiety, PTSD, and suicidal thoughts also spike following severe weather events. Those with pre-existing conditions like asthma or cardiovascular disease may find their symptoms worsening during extreme weather, making management more challenging.

Equity and Health Effects

Not all communities are affected equally by extreme weather. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, low-income families, and those with disabilities, often bear the brunt of these impacts. Access to post-disaster, life-saving resources in low-income and marginalized communities can be incredibly challenging, prolonging the recovery process and exacerbating disparities. Vulnerable groups often have higher rates of pre-existing health conditions, making them more susceptible to the adverse health effects of extreme weather.

How To Protect Yourself

There is little individuals can do to stop a natural disaster. However, we can minimize the harm caused by being prepared. 

• Build an Emergency Kit: Prepare a kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, and first aid supplies. 
• Develop a Plan: Create an emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, communication strategies, and designated meeting points. Ensure all family members are familiar with the plan.
• Stay Informed: Keep abreast of weather updates and warnings through reliable sources. Sign up for local alerts and have a battery-powered radio handy in case of power outages.

During a Flood:

• Move to higher ground if you’re in a flood-prone area.
• Follow evacuation orders and heed warning signs.
• Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters as they are hazardous. Most flood fatalities occur in vehicles.
• Seek higher ground and disconnect utilities.

During a Tornado:

• Seek shelter in a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor.
• Protect yourself with sturdy furniture and cover your body with a blanket or mattress.
• Do not attempt to outrun a tornado in a car; instead, find the nearest sturdy building for 
• shelter.

During Cold Weather: 

• Check the Forecast
• Adjust your Schedule
• Protect pets, livestock and property
• Fill your tank and update winter car survival kit 
• Dress appropriately for cold weather

Visit ready.gov to develop a plan and resilience tool kit for extreme weather conditions. 

Role of Institutions and Governments

Institutions play a crucial role in mitigating the damage caused by extreme weather and how quickly communities can recover. 

• Improving Building Codes: Stronger building materials and improved codes can minimize extreme weather damage. 
• Investing in City Infrastructure: Allocating funds for climate resilience can strengthen critical infrastructure like housing and healthcare, ensuring these resources are available post-disaster.
• Providing Trauma-Informed Care: Providing trauma-informed care to disaster survivors can address the mental health impacts of extreme weather.
• Inclusive Planning: Ensuring resources are accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities or special needs, helps create a more resilient community.
• Green Infrastructure: Developing green spaces, and flood-absorbing and reinforced infrastructure can reduce the risk of disaster and improve overall resilience.

The federal government has designated billions of dollars for climate resilience through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act which can be accessed by local governments. Visit FEMA Risk Management for more information.

Community Resilience

Building a resilient community involves collective efforts and strong community engagement. Some ways in which a community can prepare for extreme weather events: 

• Sponge Cities: Incorporating green spaces and absorbent materials into urban planning helps manage extreme weather impacts.
• Climate-Smart Agriculture: Adopting sustainable agricultural practices, including crop diversification, can enhance food security and resilience.
• Public Awareness: Raising awareness about the importance of preparedness and resilience can foster a culture of readiness.

Extreme weather is a growing concern for Southern Ohio and Northern Kentucky, with significant health impacts. By understanding these risks and taking proactive measures, we can protect ourselves and build a more resilient community. For more information on preparing for extreme weather, visit Ready.gov and check out local resources. 

Stay safe, stay informed, and let’s work together to weather the storm.

Learn More

Watch the recording of the sixth installment of the Climate Health Public Service Announcement Webinar Series, Climate Change and Extreme Weather Events and Health Outcomes in Greater Cincinnati, on YouTube. Our guest speakers are Jim Noel, Service Coordination Hydrologist at NWS/Ohio River Forecast Center and Katie Jo Berkshire, Kirkpatrick Strategic Initiatives Manager at Northern Kentucky Area Development District.

Resources

Infographics – download and share!

Contributors: Nobi Kennedy, Kelly Morton, Bamidele Osamika, Leah Ross, Mitch Singstock, and Savannah Sullivan

This piece is part of Green Umbrella’s 2024 PSA Campaign on climate health impacts, highlighting a recent report done with Scioto Analysis which was supported in part by a bi3, HealthPath, and Interact for Health Data for Equity Grant.

Another sunny summer scorcher! A good day for friends, baseball, and The Great American Ballpark, and a great day for Cincinnati Reds players looking to improve their at-bat stats: hot weather leads to more home runs. High heat leads to lower air density, allowing balls to fly farther, faster. Since 2010, over 500 home runs can be attributed to rising temperatures.

While this makes for exciting baseball games, it also highlights the unexpected impacts of rising temperatures and our region’s vulnerability to heat-related threats. As temperatures soar, it’s crucial to take necessary precautions to protect yourself from possibly life-threatening, heat-related conditions, and imperative for our communities to make changes and choices that will mitigate future heat waves.

Heat: Going to Extremes

Days with an average temperature of 90°F and higher are considered “hot”, but it’s important to also consider humidity – high heat and humidity days are called “wet bulb” days. When humans get hot, the body sweats, and evaporation of sweat acts as a coolant. In places with higher relative humidity, perspiration is less able to evaporate, meaning that areas with higher temperatures and lower humidity can feel cooler than areas with lower temperatures and high humidity. To measure dangerous heat levels, the National Weather Services uses a heat index, which takes both actual temperature and relative humidity into consideration. 

Heat stress is the leading cause of weather-related deaths across the globe. Extreme heat exacerbates pre-existing conditions including heart disease, diabetes, asthma, mental illnesses, and more. Health issues triggered by heat need immediate attention as fatalities can happen rapidly: the same day or in the days following the emergency. Hospitalization is required if symptoms are severe or are affecting traditionally vulnerable populations, such as the sick, elderly, pregnant people, and children. 

While most know if they belong to a vulnerable population, extreme heat makes even healthy people vulnerable. During a heat wave, vulnerable populations include those taking certain medications (ADHD, antidepressants, blood pressure regulators, antihistamines), unborn children, athletes, young people, and outdoor workers (delivery drivers, farm workers, construction workers, mail carriers, etc). In 2023, one in 10 heat-related deaths were people younger than 35.

Heat-related illness is a broad term relating to the health effects that being in the heat can have on our body. These illnesses occur when the body is unable to cool itself effectively. This can result in various conditions that range from discomforting (cramping, heat rash, light sunburn) to immediately dangerous (dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke).

• Heat cramps: Muscle pains or spasms that occur during activity in hot environments.
• Heat rash: Skin irritation caused by sweat trapped in the skin, causing blisters and itching.
• Sunburn: Inflamed, painful skin that feels hot to the touch caused by too much sun exposure.
• Dehydration: When the body loses more fluid than it takes in, preventing normal body functions.
• Heat exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headache. If left untreated, it can progress to heat stroke.
• Heat stroke: A severe condition characterized by a body temperature above 103°F, altered mental state, lack of sweating despite the heat, and potential unconsciousness. This is a medical emergency with a high-case fatality rate and requires immediate attention. 

Danger Zones

While Western and Southern regions typically have higher temperatures and/or heat indexes, traditionally cooler regions that experience heat waves can have more aggressive mortality rates. The Northeast and Midwest regions, unprepared for heat waves common in other regions, can be more vulnerable to physiological responses, lack of acclimation to changing elements, dramatic exposure levels, and slow community responses. 

In the middle of a heat wave, an obviously dangerous place to be is outside, exposed – areas with little greenspace or tree canopy, areas with more blacktop and paved surfaces. While many people can take refuge inside, others may not be able to due to their profession or living conditions: outdoor workers, athletes, and unhoused people are more at risk of heat-related illness. 

Even worse than being outside, one of the most dangerous places to be during a heat wave is inside a car. Even with the windows cracked open, interior temperatures can rise almost 20 degrees within the first 10 minutes. Anyone left inside a vehicle is at risk for serious heat-related illnesses or even death.

During heat waves, even staying indoors may not be enough of a respite. Up to 41% of schools may not have proper cooling or ventilation systems which cause early dismissal and cancellations. But sending children home may not be much better; older homes and buildings, lower income areas, and apartment buildings can be heat traps, collecting heat from outside with little or no ability to cool down due to building materials, poor infrastructure, or preventatively expensive cooling systems.

Historic Inequities Lead to Modern Disparities

Heat islands are developed areas that experience higher temperatures compared to outlying areas because of the concentration of built infrastructure. Buildings, roads, paved surfaces, and other structures absorb and amplify the sun’s heat more than areas with greenspace, trees, and bodies of water.

In the 1930’s, the federal government “furthered the segregation efforts by refusing to insure mortgages in and near African-American neighborhoods” in a practice known as “redlining”. Public and private lenders often withheld loans and other services from people in those areas, depriving residents of opportunities to grow their wealth and improve their communities. Although redlining has been illegal since 1968, as a result of this intentional historic divestment, today low income and communities of color are disproportionately exposed to heat risks because those neighborhoods are heat islands. In addition to overall increases in temperature, related negative effects of this disparity include higher utility bills and poorer overall air quality.

Turning Up the Heat: It’s Going to Get Worse

 In July 2023, Earth broke or tied its record for the hottest day on record – four days in a row. 2023 was the hottest year on record, but there is a strong chance that 2024 will be even hotter; every month in 2024 so far has been the hottest of those months in recorded history. Scientists say these record highs align with their expectations for climate change, and warn that more scorchers are coming.

The increase in extreme heat days is directly linked to climate change, driven by greenhouse gas emissions. Greenhouse gasses – including but not limited to carbon dioxide (CO2), methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gasses – are called such because they function like glass in a greenhouse, trapping heat within the Earth’s atmosphere and increasing the temperature throughout the globe. While these gasses are naturally occurring, higher concentrations of these gasses, released into the atmosphere by human activities like burning fossil fuels, tip the scale and cause unnatural changes to the climate.

As climate change progresses, the Greater Cincinnati region is expected to experience a significant increase in the number of extremely hot days over the next few years. This year in Cincinnati, there are an anticipated 42 days of temperatures between 90-100°F and 14 days of temperatures above 100°F; in 30 years, the number of days above 100°F is expected to double. The likelihood of heat waves lasting 3 days or more is expected to increase as well: 47% this year to 85% in 30 years (30 years ago, it was 16%).

What You Can Do to Prepare for the Heat

To protect yourself and loved ones from heat-related illnesses, take proactive measures whether at home, work, or play:

• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty, can ward off dehydration and keep the body cooler. Avoid beverages that dehydrate, such as alcohol and caffeine.
• Wear appropriate clothing: Choose lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing in breathable materials that allow the body to sweat and cool itself.
• Limit outdoor activities whenever possible. If you have to be outside, have a plan for what to do and where to go for cooling breaks. Schedule outdoor activities like athletic practices and parties during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
• Protect yourself from the sun’s heat: wide-brimmed hats, umbrellas, and sunscreen can prevent skin from absorbing too much sunlight. Handheld fans and water misters are helpful tools for staying cool on the go.
• Use fans and air conditioning to keep living spaces cool; if you do not have effective or affordable air cooling systems in the home, take refuge in public places like libraries or malls.
• Take cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature.
• Rest often! Take frequent breaks if you are working outside or engaging in physical activity.
• Check on vulnerable individuals: Ensure that elderly family members, children, and pets are protected from the heat.
• Know the signs of heat-related illnesses listed earlier in this post. Recognizing these conditions can help save someone’s life. There are additional resources at the end of this post.

Creating a Heat-Resilient Region

In 2022, power from burning coal and natural gas provided 93% of Kentucky’s electricity, 88% of Ohio’s, and 85% of Indiana’s. As a region, focusing on using cleaner energy, especially in high-energy use buildings, will reduce our greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to the rising temperatures. For example, the City of Cincinnati has a goal of 100% renewable energy by 2035. As part of these efforts, they recently created one of the largest city-established solar array projects in the nation to provide clean energy for the city and its residents. The solar array will reduce the region’s carbon emissions by 158,000 tons annually and save the city an estimated $1.8M over the next 20 years. 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program, as part of the Inflation Reduction Act, is providing a historic amount of funding and opportunities for states, local governments, tribes, and territories to develop and implement ambitious plans for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Several entities in our region have submitted Priority Climate Action Plans to cut pollution using IRA funding, including proposals from the state governments of Indiana and Ohio (for a full list of our region’s applicants, scroll down to the Learn More section of this post). Taking advantage of resources like this are great ways to get emissions reduction going in our region.

Developing new greenspace and increasing existing greenspaces in urban areas will not only offset emissions, but also help cool down those communities. Urban forests have temperatures that are on average 2.9°F lower than unforested urban areas. Trees, shrubs, and other vegetation reduce surface and air temperature, helping to avoid the heat island effect. To truly minimize heat islands and reduce the danger of extreme heat for all, it is imperative to focus greenspace development efforts on historically marginalized communities, such as those targeted by redlining programs in the past. Possibilities for greenspace development include planting trees, installing rooftop gardens, maintaining community parks, and converting unused lots into new greenspaces like urban gardens, mini-forests, or pocket parks. 

Staying Cool, Together

As we transition into clean energy and green infrastructures, incorporating the principles of environmental justice and investing in communities with the fewest resources is paramount in future climate work to alleviate unjust burdens on our most harmed communities. 

Together, through informed actions and collective effort, we can build a more resilient and equitable region that is prepared to face the impacts of rising temperatures. Let’s prioritize both immediate safety measures and long-term solutions to protect our community and environment.

Learn More

Watch the recording of the fifth installment of the Climate Health Public Service Announcement Webinar Series, Climate Change, Heat Islands, and Health Outcomes in Greater Cincinnati, on YouTube. Our guest speaker is Vivek Shanda, PhD and Professor at Portland State University’s Noah A. Toulan School of Urban Studies & Planning.

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Priority Climate Action Plans in our region

Priority Climate Action Plans submitted to the EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program from our region (click on the entity to see plans):

• Indiana
  • Indiana Department of Environmental Management (awarded $3M in 2023)
  • Central Indiana Regional Development Authority (awarded $1M in 2023)
• Kentucky
  • City of Bowling Green
  • Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government
  • Louisville-Jefferson Co. Metro Government (Louisville Mayor’s Office of Sustainability; also includes 4 counties in Indiana)
• Ohio
  • Ohio Environmental Protection Agency
  • Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Regional Council of Governments (includes Cincinnati metro area with counties in Indiana and Kentucky; Green Umbrella was part of the planning process for this Priority Climate Action Plan)
  • Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency 
  • City of Columbus
  • Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission

Resources

• CDC – Heat-Related Illness Prevention
• CDC – Heat-Related Illness Symptoms
• Climate Pollution Reduction Grants
• The Effects of Historical Housing Policies on Resident Exposure to Intra-Urban Heat
• Energy.gov – Home Weatherization 
• EPA – Climate Change & Heat Islands
• EPA – Greenhouse Gas Overview
• FEMA – Building Resilient Infrastructure & Communities 
• Global Heat Health Information Network
• HEAT.gov
• Heat Waves in the United States
• Ready.gov – Extreme Heat
• USDA – Urban & Community Forestry Program

Infographics – download and share!

Contributors: Nobi Kennedy, Kelly Morton, Bamidele Osamika, Leah Ross, Mitch Singstock, and Savannah Sullivan

This piece is part of Green Umbrella’s 2024 PSA Campaign on climate health impacts, highlighting a recent report done with Scioto Analysis which was supported in part by a bi3, HealthPath, and Interact for Health Data for Equity Grant.

In the Midwest, the only place you’re usually going to see a live flamingo is a zoo or bird sanctuary. But in the fall of 2023, hurricane winds blew a flamboyance of flamingos (yes, that’s what it’s called) off their migratory course and were spotted in the wild at Caesar’s Creek Park Lake near Waynesville in Southwest Ohio. Although a memorable moment for bird enthusiasts in the area, the reality behind their presence is disquieting: changing climate is disrupting animal behavior and their ecosystems. Our increasingly unpredictable climate will continue to disrupt animal behavior and destabilize ecosystems, displacing creatures great and small – and not all are as fun to host as flamingos. 

As our region becomes warmer and wetter, infectious disease-carrying creatures – known as vectors – will find comfortable homes in areas that were previously inhospitable. Take the 2016 anthrax outbreak in Russia’s Yamal Peninsula, a remote corner of Siberia above the Arctic Circle. An unexpected heatwave thawed permafrost, releasing dormant anthrax spores that infected reindeer and the humans living alongside the herds. Ensuing studies show that these events are likely to continue to crop up with more frequency and underscore how warming climates can awaken hidden dangers. So, while flamingos can be a delightful surprise, the broader impacts of climate change demand urgent attention.

Climate Change: Giving Vectors a Home

A biological vector is a living thing that carries a disease-causing agent (virus, bacteria, infectious spores, etc.) between different species – for example, a rabid dog is considered a vector because it can transfer rabies to humans and other animals. Because of climate change, vector-borne illnesses – diseases primarily spread through vectors – are an emerging concern for our region, in both rural and urban communities. Climate change is making the Midwest warmer and receive more precipitation, creating an environment more welcoming to pests like biting insects and rodents, which are extremely common vectors for illness.

This post will focus on vector-borne diseases from biting insects, specifically ticks and mosquitoes. These insects thrive in warmer climates; cold and frigid weather both prevents breeding and can kill them off, meaning that warmer autumns and winters are not as effective at controlling the population. 

In addition to aiding population growth of the pests already existing in our region, climate change is driving more species of biting insects north from tropical, subtropical, and desert climates. In some cases, rising temperatures can even change the typical behavior of biting insects; for example, in higher temperatures, a species of brown dog tick prefers to bite humans instead of dogs, increasing the possibility of contracting Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (see below). This tick is typically found in the southwestern US, but their range is expected to move northward as climate change causes average temperatures to rise.

While the impact of many illnesses will change as the climate does, these vectors and the diseases they carry are likely to make a significant impact on our region – including exposure to diseases traditionally considered rare in the continental United States, like dengue fever and malaria.

Vectors in our region: Ticks

Lyme Disease

With 476,000 infections a year, Lyme disease is the most commonly reported vector-borne illness in the United States. It is caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi and transmitted by blacklegged ticks (also known as deer ticks). People who spend time outside in wooded or grassy areas are most at risk of becoming exposed to Lyme disease.

The most common early symptoms of Lyme disease (within 3-30 days) are a “bulls-eye” rash, a single red circle that spreads from the site of the tick bite; extreme tiredness and muscle aches; headaches; and fever. Because the rash can be easily missed, and the other symptoms mistaken for other common infections, Lyme disease can pass unnoticed for months. 

If left untreated, symptoms of the later stages of Lyme disease can show up 3-10 weeks and even 2-12 months after infection. New symptoms can include disruption to the immune system that causes irregular heartbeats, eye pain, or vision loss; muscle weakness in the face, hands, or feet; and arthritis in large joints, especially the knees.

Diagnosing Lyme disease can be difficult if the bulls-eye rash is missed or absent; some people can suffer for years before being diagnosed. Treating Lyme disease consists of rounds of antibiotics. There is no vaccine for Lyme disease; the best defense against Lyme disease is prevention.

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

Spread by several species of ticks, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) is one of the most deadly types of tick-borne disease. RMSF can be deadly within days if not treated with proper medical care; the fatality rate for untreated cases range from 13-25%.

Early symptoms appear in the first 1-4 days and can manifest as a rash, high fever, severe headache, muscle pain, swelling around the eyes and back of the hands, and gastrointestinal issues including nausea, vomiting, and anorexia. After day 4, symptoms can include coma, swelling of the brain, organ failure, and tissue death requiring amputation. Because of the severity and rapidity of the disease progression, delay in antibiotic treatment can result in permanent damage or death. There is no vaccine for RMSF; the best defense is prevention.

Vectors in Our Region: Mosquitos

Today in the United States, mosquitos in the United States are seen more as a nuisance on a summer’s evening than a serious health risk, but that’s not the case throughout history or the rest of the world. In 2023, the WHO estimates there were 263 million cases of malaria across the globe and 597K deaths – and mosquitos are the malaria parasite’s vector.

Malaria

Malaria used to be so prevalent in the U.S. that the primary mission of the newly formed Communicable Disease Center (CDC) was to eliminate malaria as a major public health problem. Total elimination of transmission was achieved, and the U.S. was declared malaria-free in 1949.

There are 2000-2500 cases of malaria in the United States annually linked to travel in areas where the disease is currently endemic, such as Africa south of the Sahara, Southeast Asia, and parts of Oceania. But in 2023, locally-acquired cases of malaria were reported in Florida, Texas, and Maryland. Climate change is making it easier for the Anopheles mosquito to infect humans in the United States.

The most common symptoms of malaria include fever, chills, nausea, muscle aches, tiredness, and flu-like illness. These symptoms can appear as early as one week after infection or as late as a year or longer. If left untreated, malaria can cause kidney failure, seizures, coma, and death. There are malaria vaccines available for use in children in high transmission areas, and those who know they will be exposed to malaria can take medications to prevent infection. Malaria can be cured if diagnosed and treated promptly.

Dengue Fever

Dengue fever – also known as break-bone fever due to its severe pain symptoms – is mainly found in tropical and subtropical areas throughout the world, but last year, locally acquired cases of dengue popped up in California, Texas, and Florida. Dengue is a virus spread through the bites of the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, an invasive species that is expanding in distribution throughout the world. In the United States, the northernmost established populations of the Aedes mosquito are in New Jersey, southern New York, and Pennsylvania – for now. Climate change is making more of the U.S. hospitable to these insects; by 2070-2099, the Midwest will be a suitable place for dengue-carrying mosquitos to survive and thrive.

While common symptoms of dengue are fever, headaches, and severe body aches, up to 75% of people infected can show no symptoms at all – meaning that there is potential for more mosquitos to bite them and go on to infect more people. 1 in 20 infected people who experience symptoms will develop severe dengue, which can be life-threatening within hours. Common signs of severe dengue are vomiting, bleeding, and stomach pain. Most people recover from dengue after about a week, but recovering does not offer immunity from being infected again. 

There is no prescribed treatment for dengue aside from pain management, and severe cases of dengue require immediate medical attention. At this time, a vaccine is available in 20 countries only for those who have already been infected with dengue and recovered, though widespread approval of a dengue vaccine for anyone, regardless of prior infection, is currently in process.

West Nile

West Nile Virus is a significant vector-borne illness and a particularly serious threat in our region. It is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has contracted the virus by feeding on birds that carry the disease, including crows or jays. Most infected individuals show no symptoms, but about 20% experience fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Severe cases can develop neurological complications such as encephalitis or meningitis, which can manifest as high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, and even paralysis. Diagnosis is typically confirmed via lab tests that detect the virus or antibodies in the blood or cerebrospinal fluid. 

Currently, there is no specific treatment for WNV and care is largely supportive. Over-the-counter pain relievers can alleviate some symptoms while severe cases may require hospitalization for intravenous fluids, pain management, and prevention of secondary infections.

What You Can Do Right Now

The best way to protect yourself from infection is prevention! Wear protective clothing when going through wooded or grassy areas. Apply bug spray to ward off mosquitoes, ticks, and biting insects. Avoid touching wild animals, including squirrels, rabbits, chipmunks, and deer – they can be carriers of vectors like fleas and ticks. Directly after returning inside, check your body and clothing for any sneaky ticks (they like to hide in hair, behind ears, and behind arms and legs). 

Stay alert! Keep a mental note of any possible exposures to vector-borne illnesses and monitor any bug bites. Know the signs and symptoms of vector-borne diseases; if you become ill after an exposure, make sure to tell your doctor where you were so they can take the exposure into consideration. More information and resources about vector-borne illnesses are at the bottom of this post.

What We Can Do As a Community

Taking action now will be a big step towards defending our community from vector-borne disease. Advocating for more CDC funding and vaccine availability is imperative to prepare for a future with more of these diseases. For those in public health and policy, being aware of historical and indigenous approaches to these diseases can be a big help in learning how to handle the vectors and the pathogens they carry. Effective food waste, landfill, and stormwater management are necessary to help control rodent and insect populations that could become possible vectors for disease.

Strong public policies, such as housing and land use regulations that support the management of these issues, are essential. Implementing comprehensive vector and disease surveillance programs and robust vector control initiatives will help in early identification and response. Early warning and monitoring systems will facilitate timely interventions to prevent outbreaks. Public awareness and engagement campaigns are vital for educating the community on preventative measures and responses. 

As the threat of vector-borne illness grows in our region, education remains key to keeping the public aware and helping to prevent infection. Share information on how to prevent, recognize, and treat diseases moving into our region with the public, and issue transparency about information on infection rates and research on evolving instances with health professionals.

Learn More

Watch the recording of the fourth installment of the Climate Health Public Service Announcement Webinar Series, Climate Change and the risk of Vector Borne Illnesses, on YouTube. Our guest speakers are Allison T. Parker, PhD Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences at Northern Kentucky University and Joshua B. Benoit, Ph.D. Professor of Biological Sciences at University of Cincinnati.

Resources

• Climate Change and Insect Vectors
• Protect yourself from vector-borne disease
• Types and Symptoms of vector-borne disease

Infographics – download and share!

Federal assistance programs:

• CDC Division of Vector Borne Disease
• Strategies for Improving Rural Health
• ReConnect Loan and Grant Program

Contributors: Nobi Kennedy, Kelly Morton, Bamidele Osamika, Leah Ross, Mitch Singstock, and Savannah Sullivan

This piece is part of Green Umbrella’s 2024 PSA Campaign on climate health impacts, highlighting a recent report done with Scioto Analysis which was supported in part by a bi3, HealthPath, and Interact for Health Data for Equity Grant.

As the impacts of human activities on our planet continue to compound, extreme weather events with potentially catastrophic outcomes will occur with more frequency and intensity. Flooding is the United States’ most frequent and expensive natural disaster, responsible for more than $850 billion in damage since 2000 and two thirds of the cost from all natural disasters.

Our Tri-State region – seated in the Ohio River Basin, along the Ohio River Valley, with many rivers running through it – is naturally susceptible to flooding, which makes the issue an increasingly severe threat to our communities. Major floods stress communities through home damage, food and housing insecurity, and disease. 

Historic Flooding in the Ohio River Valley

In January of 1937, the Ohio River Valley experienced “Black Sunday,” the worst flood the region had seen since European settlers founded Cincinnati.

The Ohio River, swelling past the flood stage for a week, would finally spill over precautionary barriers into the city’s infrastructure,  devastating the city and surrounding neighborhoods. Floodwaters swamped railways, waterworks, electrical stations, and telephone switches. Mill Creek Valley was a “lake of fire,” as tons of gasoline were ignited when a trolley line snapped, setting the spill ablaze. Six additional inches of snow fell, soaking the city’s coal and uprooting gas lines.

The flood lasted for nineteen days, killing hundreds throughout the region, displacing over 100k people, and costing over $75M in damages (over $1B today).

Health effects of flooding

The cost of severe floods is often characterized in economic terms – monetary damages, buildings destroyed, infrastructure repairs – but researchers are beginning to understand the full toll that floods have on community health, expanding far beyond accidental injury.

Immediate Health Risks:

During and directly after flooding, immediate threats to health and survival include hypothermia, drowning, and injuries such as fractures, strains, contusions, and soft tissue damage. In addition to the dramatically increased accident risk, high water can make access to rescue and health care facilities difficult or even impossible in some cases (this is especially acute for vulnerable populations). Flash flooding, because of its speed and unpredictability, compounds the risks and makes it more likely for people to be caught in high water situations at home and on the road. Furthermore, landslides are activated by storms and pose a significant risk in our region.

Prolonged Health Risks:

When the most time-sensitive dangers of high water have passed, other risks remain. Non-accidental deaths associated with cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and mental health disorders are equally as risky.

Destruction of buildings, homes, and roads cause displacement and homelessness. Those without the financial resources, relationships, or safety nets that can prevent or lessen displacement may find their situations especially dire as time goes on. 

Buildings impacted by flooding or even heavy precipitation can themselves pose a risk to inhabitants. Lingering moisture can lead to the growth of harmful molds and bacteria, which can exacerbate existing chronic conditions and cause breathing problems, decreased lung function, and infections. 

Disease is a risk factor to consider as water-borne bacteria and viruses are brought into potential human contact. High water can overwhelm sewer and waste management systems, dispersing contaminated water that can spread bacteria and diarrhea-causing diseases. Standing water, unable to be absorbed into saturated soil or drained into full sewers, is a breeding ground for microorganisms and biting insects. 

Staying safe during a flood

Having a flood plan is essential to keep you and others safe during a flood. Flood plans can be made for yourself, your home, your business, and your community. See these flood safety tips, for what to do before-during-after a flood. It is crucial to not walk or drive in flood water, to get to higher ground as soon as possible, and follow any and all evacuation instructions and orders that your local government or emergency organizations release. Protecting your house with needed improvements, flood insurance, and weatherproofing can protect your home from flood damage. Find resources related to making a flood plan at the end of this post!

Land and Water Quality After Flooding

Erosion happens when materials are worn away and removed by natural forces such as wind or water. Soil degradation happens when the quality of the soil itself declines and reduces its ability to support plants and animals. While erosion is a geographic process that has happened throughout history, flooding and other extreme events – exacerbated by human activity like farming, deforestation, and development and made more frequent by climate change – make soil erosion and degradation a threat to community health.

In the Ohio River Valley, we are especially vulnerable to soil erosion and degradation. Soil degradation increases waterway pollution because degraded lands are less able to retain water, increasing water runoff, worsening flooding further, and negatively impacting aquatic ecosystems. With an eroding riverbank, buildings and bridges along the river may experience structural change, making them unsafe for habitation and transport. Riverbank erosion can also allow chemicals to seep into our already polluted river, impacting the ecosystem and the health of the people who get their water from the river. 

It is estimated that a third of the soil in the world has been degraded, which is a massive concern since, without good soil, we can’t grow good crops to eat. The most vulnerable areas to soil erosion from flooding are farms, areas with low vegetation, and orchards. The Midwest relies on many farms to create a good economy, supply healthy food, and make a living for many families. If the soil in our region loses the necessary nutrients needed to keep a farm in business, everyone will feel its effects. 

Creating a Region Resilient Against Flooding

Currently, 67% of census tracts in the Cincinnati area are at risk of riverine flooding, with a projection to increase in the coming years. In the state of Ohio, “the city of Cincinnati has the greatest number of properties at risk of flooding in the state with 21,200 currently at risk, or 13% of its total number of properties. However, smaller cities or municipalities in the state, with fewer properties, may have a greater proportion of their total properties at risk.” There is also an expected 10% increase in extreme precipitation within the next 30 years compared to the current data. 

Having plans for our region is a meaningful way to become more resilient and prepare our communities. Taking action as soon as possible will lessen the effects of climate change on our health and homes. Learn more about your risk through resources like a recently completed assessment by NASA Develop of flooding and landslide susceptibility along the Ohio-Kentucky border in 2021. 

Despite the risks, much is being done in our city to plan and prepare for disaster. The Metropolitan Sewer District headed the Lick Run Greenway Project to address sewer overflows using green infrastructure such as bioswales and restoring sewers and stream channels. Groundwork Ohio River Valley’s Climate Safe Neighborhoods Project gathers data and community engagement to inform residents of their risks in several issues, including flooding, and aid in creating resiliency plans to mitigate them. Communities United for Action has dedicated issue-based teams for both Sewer Justice and Stormwater Management. 

You can lead change by supporting green infrastructure and watershed planning and advocating for the maintenance and improvement of our existing sewage and waste management systems. Protecting our riverbanks from erosion can limit the damage caused to homes and properties near the water. Limiting erosion can also protect water quality and limit the volumes of already present contaminants. 

Learn More

Watch the recording of the third installment of the Climate Health Public Service Announcement Webinar Series, Climate Change, Flash Flood Events and Health Outcomes in Greater Cincinnati, on YouTube. Our guest speaker is Aaron B. Wilson, PhD, Assistant Professor at The Ohio State University and State Climatologist for the State Climate Office of Ohio.

Resources

Infographics – download and share!

Flood preparation:

• What to Do Before a Flood
• Flood Safety for Greater Cincinnati
• ready.gov for Flooding

Community change:

• Flood Mitigation Assistance
• Soak up the Rain
• Green Infrastructure Federal Collaborative
• Watershed Planning and Green Infrastructure
• Brownfield Grants
• ReConnect Loan and Grant Program
• Emergency Watershed Protection
• PROTECT Program grants
• Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities
• National Flood Insurance Program
• Communities United for Action
• Groundwork Ohio River Valley