Homeless people in New Orleans and San Diego face heightened heat dangers

Extreme heat is straining resources for people experiencing homelessness in two U.S. cities. In southeast Louisiana, heat‑index values are expected to reach 115 °F, with about 1,600 unsheltered individuals in Orleans and Jefferson parishes at risk. Since 2023 the region has logged 98 heat‑related deaths, over half of the state total, and seniors are especially vulnerable. New Orleans offers cooling centers, street outreach that distributes water and cooling supplies, and a plan to plant 40,000 trees by 2030, while officials warn a statewide public‑sleeping ban could deter people from seeking aid.

In San Diego County, temperatures have climbed to around 110 °F. Father Joe’s Street Outreach and other service providers are distributing water, hats, sunscreen, sunglasses and shoes, and directing people to “cool zones” such as libraries and recreation centers that are open during the day. Outreach staff note that seniors experiencing homelessness face a heightened risk of heatstroke, and barriers such as restrictions on belongings can limit access to these cool zones.