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 can cause heat-related illness and death.
Severe storms
Wisconsin averages 23 tornadoes per year. The high winds and heavy rains can cause serious health risks.
Winter weather
Winter storms often bring high winds, heavy snow, ice, and extreme cold temperatures.
Drought
Drought conditions may lead to breathing problems from dust and particles and a decline in drinking water quality and quantity.
Floods
Learn how to prepare before a flood hits, stay safe during a flood and safely clean up after a flood.
Air quality
Breathing polluted air can cause health problems ranging from watery eyes and cough, to asthma or heart attacks and stroke.
Infectious diseases
Higher temperatures are bringing new types of ticks and mosquitoes that spread new diseases.
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.