Full Breakdown
Extreme-Heat Survey Finds Growing Disruption to Everyday Life
8/6/2026, 9:42:28 PM
Core Findings of the AP-NORC Poll
The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research surveyed 1,165 U.S. adults (margin of error ± 3.7 percentage points) beginning July 23, 2026. Respondents reported that extreme heat now has a “major” or “minor” impact on multiple aspects of daily life. About 8 in 10 say their electricity bills are affected, up from 69 % in July 2024. Roughly 4 in 10 say travel or vacation plans are altered, compared with about one-quarter a year earlier. Around 7 in 10 note impacts on family outdoor activities, a rise from roughly 6 in 10 in 2024. The poll also shows a modest decline in climate-change belief: 66 % affirm it is happening, down from 73 % in September 2025, while 17 % are unsure and 15 % deny it.
Daily Routines Reshaped by Heat
Respondents across the West and Midwest describe shifting schedules to avoid midday heat. Retired nurse Elisa Bracamonte, 74, of Tucson, says she now rises at 5 a.m. to walk before temperatures climb into the 80s, losing sleep as a result. Bridge inspector Daemien Williams, 50, of Cahokia Heights, Illinois, observes that his utility usage has risen sharply, prompting concerns about rising costs.
Energy Bills and Travel Plans Under Strain
Higher demand for air-conditioning drives the reported surge in electricity expenses. Families report canceling or postponing trips; Bracamonte explains that increased fires and flooding in the Southwest limit summer gatherings.
Climate Perception Amid Personal Impacts
Despite personal hardships, a majority still acknowledge climate change, though the belief share has slipped slightly.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’ve noticed at least a 10 degree difference in the weather,” — Elisa Bracamonte
- “I have to get up at 5 in the morning to walk before 6, because by 7 it’s already in the 80s … I lose a couple hours of sleep because I’m having to wake up earlier,” — Elisa Bracamonte
- “I feel like my utility costs probably doubled in the last three or four years,” — Daemien Williams, a 50-year-old bridge inspector living in Cahokia Heights, Illinois
- “Brutal, life-threatening heat waves have become more frequent, more intense, and more persistent in many parts of the globe, including our Western and Midwestern states,” — Jennifer Francis, a climate scientist at the Woodwell Climate Research Center
