'DEC Does What?!' Podcast Episode 11 Now Available: The (Extreme) Heat is On

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today released the latest episode of "DEC Does What?!", the bi-weekly podcast that features conversations with DEC experts about the agency's wide-ranging efforts to protect New Yorkers and the environment. Episode Eleven - "The (Extreme) Heat Is On"- explores the emerging risks of extreme heat and how New York State is planning for increased frequency of hotter weather.

Extreme heat is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United States each year, more than hurricanes, tornadoes, and flooding combined. In this episode, guest Dr. Leo Bachinger, Special Assistant with DEC's Office of Climate Change, joins hosts Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar and Chief of Staff Erica Ringewald for a conversation about the biggest risks created by extreme heat, how climate change is worsening the impact of extreme heat on the human body and local ecosystems, and multi-agency efforts like New York State's first-ever Extreme Heat Action Plan to help local communities prepare and respond to increased temperatures. Bachinger also explains the impact of the 2003 heat wave in Europe that killed tens of thousands of people and how it inspired his pursuit of a career studying climate change.

All episodes of "DEC Does What?!" are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms.

For more information on "DEC Does What?!," visit DEC's website.