Beyond the temperature: Palm Springs summit examines the human toll of extreme heat

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) - As extreme heat continues to pose challenges across the Coachella Valley, local leaders and experts are taking a closer look at what happens when the systems people rely on to stay safe are put under stress.

The City of Palm Springs is hosting its inaugural Extreme Heat Summit Friday at the Palm Springs Convention Center.

The event brings together public health professionals, emergency managers, researchers, urban planners and community leaders to discuss how communities can better prepare for dangerous heat.

Sessions throughout the day are focusing on the human cost of extreme heat, vulnerable populations, infrastructure, emergency preparedness and ways cities can create cooler and more resilient spaces.

News Channel 3 is speaking with local experts about what extreme heat means for people living in the Coachella Valley, including who faces the greatest risk and what happens when resources people depend on during dangerous temperatures are strained.

News Channel 3 is getting answers on where the biggest vulnerabilities remain and what experts say communities need to consider as they prepare for future extreme heat.

Watch the full story tonight at 5 P.M. on News Channel 3.