A new report from the AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research reveals that 90% of Americans now state that extreme heat has had at least a minor impact on their day-to-day lives. This figure represents a notable increase from the 83% reported in a similar survey conducted two years ago. The findings suggest that the public is becoming more acutely aware of how rising temperatures influence various aspects of their personal circumstances, including physical health, travel arrangements, and household budgets.

Financial strain appears to be a primary concern for many respondents. According to the data, 80% of Americans now report that extreme heat has affected their power bills, reflecting the increased costs associated with cooling homes during periods of high temperature. While the survey highlights the broad scope of these impacts, it underscores a growing trend in public perception regarding climate-related stressors. The data suggests that as extreme weather events become more frequent, the cumulative effect on the average American’s quality of life and economic stability is being felt more widely across the country. The report serves as a barometer for how climate patterns are shifting from abstract environmental concerns to tangible, everyday challenges for the majority of the population.