Climate and Health
The Climate and Health Program studies how climate change harms people's health in Wisconsin and develops ways to reduce those health impacts. We use our research to create strategies, tools, and trainings to help communities adapt to climate change and protect the health of all Wisconsinites.
Learn more about the link between climate change and health risks, health and safety tips, and the work we do.
Extreme Heat
Warm temperatures combined with high humidity levels can pose a risk of heat-related illness and death.
Severe Storms
Wisconsin still experiences, on average, 23 tornadoes per year. The high winds can pose serious health hazards.
Winter Weather
Winter storms can sweep through bringing high winds, large amounts of accumulating snow and ice, and extreme cold temperatures.
Drought
Drought conditions may lead to food insecurity and breathing problems from dust, pollen, and other particles. Drought can also threaten drinking water quality and quantity.
Floods
Learn the steps to take before a flood hits. Get tips on staying safe during a flood and learn proper safety measures when cleaning up after a flood.
Air Quality
The quality of the air we breathe impacts our health. Breathing polluted air can cause health problems ranging from watery eyes and cough, to worsening asthma, heart attack and stroke.
Infectious Diseases
Changes in the climate may lead to more flooding and precipitation. These trends could allow for an increase in diseases spread by mosquitoes and ticks
Climate change reports
- Lancet Climate Change Countdown annual report on climate and health impacts (December 2023)
- The Fifth National Climate Assessment report on climate impacts, risks, and responses. (November 2023)
- Achieving 100% Clean Energy in Wisconsin report (PDF) – August 2022
- Wisconsin Clean Energy Plan (PDF) – April 2022
- 2021 Climate Assessment report from the Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts (February 2022)
- Governor's Task Force on Climate Change in Wisconsin report (December 2020)
Toolkits for health professionals
Toolkits are available to help health professionals provide information and resources on health risks from climate change and extreme weather to patients, clients, and communities. View more toolkits.
View more climate change and health resources for health professionals.
Email dhsclimate@dhs.wisconsin.gov or call us at 608-267-3242 if you have any questions.