Extreme Heat Raises Electricity Bills for Most Americans, AP-NORC Poll Reveals

A new poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research finds that around 7 in 10 Americans say extreme heat has impacted their electricity bills in the past year. Most have also seen effects on their outdoor activities.

This summer, Levena Lindahl, 37, from North Carolina, fights rising heat. She closes off rooms, uses blackout curtains, and budgets carefully to manage her air conditioning costs. Despite her efforts, the heat seeps in. "Going upstairs feels like walking into soup," she says. Her summer electricity bills, once $100, have doubled. Lindahl blames climate change.

A recent poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows that around 7 in 10 Americans have seen their electricity bills impacted by extreme heat. Most have also experienced disruptions in outdoor activities. The survey shows how extreme heat is affecting lives across the country.

Jim Graham, 54, from Phoenix, Arizona, walks his dog early in the morning to avoid the scorching heat. His electricity bills have soared, with air conditioning costs over $350 a month. Like many others, Graham sees a link to climate change.

The poll shows that extreme heat affects sleep, pets, and exercise routines for many. About 4 in 10 Americans report at least minor impacts on these parts of their lives. People in the West and South report more significant effects. Nearly half in the West and 4 in 10 in the South say their sleep is disrupted by heat.

Travel plans also suffer. Around a quarter of Americans say extreme heat has impacted their vacations, with Hispanic and Black Americans more affected than others. Enjoying time outside has become harder for about 6 in 10 Americans.

Beliefs about climate change influence how people feel about heat impacts. About 8 in 10 who believe in climate change say heat affects their bills, compared to half of those unsure or disbelieving.

Climate change worries are widespread. Seventy percent of U.S. adults believe it is happening. Among them, most say it's caused by human activities. This belief spans political lines, with 9 in 10 Democrats, 7 in 10 independents, and about half of Republicans agreeing climate change is real.

As extreme heat continues to rise, Americans face higher costs and changes in daily life, highlighting the urgent need to address climate change.