Holiday weekend heat-deaths labeled ‘mass casualty event’ by advocates

In a concerning turn of events, the recent spate of heat-related deaths over a holiday weekend has been classified as a "mass casualty event" by local advocates, with 29 fatalities recorded in just five days. This alarming situation highlights the urgent need for New Jersey to enhance measures protecting vulnerable populations from extreme heat. The severity of these deaths underscores the potential consequences of inadequate preparation for climate change, emphasizing the importance of proactive policies to safeguard public health during heatwaves.