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3w ago

Majority of Americans Say Extreme Heat Is Reshaping Daily Life, AP‑NORC Poll Finds

A late July survey shows higher bills, changed routines and disrupted travel that signal rising strain on households, health and infrastructure.

FILE - A formerly floating buoy now sits high and dry above Lake Powell at the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, July 15, 2026, near Page, Nev. (AP Photo/John Locher, File)
FILE - Mickelina Papotto, of Salem, Ore., left, and Lorie Odegaard, of Gaithersburg, Md., fan themselves while waiting in line for the ferris wheel at the Great American State Fair on the National Mall, July 1, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)
FILE - A vendor sells Gatorade and water bottles near the Washington Monument during a heat wave July 3, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson, File)
Reproduced from AP; Chart: Axios Visuals

Overview

  • The AP‑NORC poll of 1,165 adults, conducted July 23–27, 2026, found 90% of Americans say extreme heat had at least a minor impact on their lives, up from 83% two years ago.
  • About 80% reported higher electricity use or bills and 68% said outdoor activities were affected, with Midwestern residents reporting the largest jump in ‘major’ bill impacts.
  • Reports of disrupted travel rose sharply to 42% from 26% in 2024, and many people described shifting schedules, losing sleep and canceling or postponing outdoor plans.
  • The increases were concentrated in the West and Midwest and Democrats were more likely than Republicans to say heat had a major effect on daily life.
  • Scientists note 2023–2025 ranked among the hottest years on record and link recent heat to thousands of deaths, greater wildfire and crop risk, and added pressure on energy grids and public services.