Heat Makes Emergencies More Common and Overdose More Deadly
New evidence that heat may increase deaths from drug use and some medications.
By Mark S Gold M.D.
Published by Psychology Today on June 3, 2026
Key points
• The weather is an overlooked contributor increasing overdose deaths.
• Extreme heat amplifies risks from opioids, cocaine, methamphetamine, alcohol, and some prescribed medications.
• Simple measures like hydration, cooling, and Narcan access may save lives in extreme heat.
As New Yorkers prepare for one of the hottest Fourth of July weekends in years—with temperatures of 100°F and heat indices exceeding 110°F—public health officials warn of dehydration, heatstroke, and cardiovascular stress. Less appreciated is another danger: Extreme heat may increase the risk that a drug overdose becomes fatal.
