When the temperature heats up, so do emergency rooms, according to a massive study of Chicago hospital and urgent care records, which found increased accidental gunshot wounds, kidney complaints, skin problems, varicose veins and even mental health issues related to marijuana use. Kristie Ebi, professor of global health and of environmental and occupational health sciences at the UW, is quoted.

Dr. Judy Wasserheit, professor emeritus and former chair of the UW Department of Global Health, was elected to the Washington State Academy of Sciences Board of Directors. The board guides the implementation of WSAS’s mission, sets its strategic priorities, and provides oversight.

Extreme heat is killing hundreds of thousands of people every year — and the annual toll is growing. This week, extreme heat has once again blistered parts of the continent and East Asia. Kristie Ebi, professor of global health and of environmental and occupational health sciences at the UW, is quoted.

Meaningful work can come from unexpected turns

Western Washington’s luck avoiding wildfire smoke so far this summer is running out. A wildfire smoke alert was issued Monday for most of the Puget Sound region, with air quality likely to deteriorate Monday afternoon and reach unhealthy levels Tuesday. Air quality will remain poor throughout the week before finally clearing Friday. Kristie Ebi, professor of global health and of environmental and occupational health sciences at the UW, is quoted.

The Washington State Climate Office predicts warmer-than-normal temperatures will continue into the fall and experts said there is a lot state leaders can do to help residents find relief and save lives. Kristie Ebi, professor of global health and of environmental and occupational health sciences at the UW, is quoted.