The Department of Homeland Security has expressed concerns over the preparedness and funding for the intense hurricane and wildfire season expected this year. Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas highlighted that extreme heat could be considered a major disaster under federal law, but historically, local communities have managed heat waves and wildfire smoke without needing federal financial aid.
Mayorkas emphasized that FEMA is well-prepared due to the frequent practice they have had in responding to disasters intensified by climate change. However, he raised concerns about the disaster relief fund, which is projected to be depleted by mid-August, and urged Congress to provide additional funding.
The United States is currently experiencing a severe heat wave, with many areas forecasted to have record temperatures. Environmental advocates and some members of Congress are pushing for extreme heat and wildfire smoke to be classified as major disasters to unlock federal funds for mitigation measures such as cooling centers and community solar projects.
In South Korea, a heat wave warning has been issued as temperatures soared to 37 degrees in some areas. The city of Seoul has implemented measures to mitigate the effects of the heat wave, including operating a heat wave situation room and increasing water cleaning times to reduce the urban heat island effect. The Korea Meteorological Administration forecasts that high temperatures will continue, with some regions expected to experience heavy rain due to the rainy season front.
- Mayorkas noted that if the disaster relief fund runs out, FEMA would resort to immediate needs financing, reallocating funds from other programs to address urgent needs. However, this would eventually impact long-term recovery efforts.
- The current heat wave in the United States is part of a trend of increasing extreme weather events attributed to climate change. Last year, the country experienced the highest number of heat waves since 1936, and this year is expected to continue that trend.
- In South Korea, the heat wave has led to the opening of outdoor swimming pools in Seoul, providing some relief to residents. The Korea Meteorological Administration predicts that the high temperatures will persist until the 21st, after which they may drop slightly due to increased cloud cover, but high humidity will keep the heat uncomfortable.
