SECTION 4: RISK ASSESSMENT
Train rails may also distort or buckle under the stress of head induced expansion. Power transmission lines may sag from expansion and if contact is made with vegetation the line may short out causing power outages. Additional power demand for cooling also increases power line temperature adding to heat impacts. Extreme heat can also cause significant agricultural losses. Between 2007-2023, the sum of claims paid for crop damage due to heat in Wake County was $3,429,607.85, or an average of $201,741.64 in losses every year. Losses were greatest in 2016 when 512 acres of flue cured tobacco, soybeans, and corn were affected, resulting in $494,026.75 in crop losses. Table 4.35 summarizes the crop losses due to drought in reported in the RMA system. Table 4.35 – Crop Losses Resulting from Heat, 2007-2023 Year Determined Acres Indemnity Amount 2008 16.40 $380.00 2010 1480.92 $338,250.00 2011 296.21 $104,999.00 2012 456.98 $114,504.00 2015 239.62 $280,358.30 2016 512.32 $494,026.75 2017 386.77 $179,418.00 2018 101.215 $48,761.2 2019 72.4675 $17,014.25 2020 19.95 $38,091.9 2022 523.1735 $242,355 2023 1361.971 $238,931.4 Total 8,470.45 $3,429,607.85 Source: USDA Risk Management Agency
ENVIRONMENT
Wild animals are vulnerable to heat disorders similar to humans, including mortality. Vegetation growth will be stunted or plants may be killed if temperatures rise above their tolerance extremes.
CONSEQUENCE ANALYSIS
Table 4.36 summarizes the potential negative consequences of extreme heat. Table 4.36 – Consequence Analysis – Extreme Heat Category Consequences Public Extreme heat may cause illness and/or death. Responders
Consequences may be greater for responders if their work requires exertion and/or wearing heavy protective gear. Continuity of operations is not expected to be impacted by extreme heat because warning time for these events is long. Minor impacts may occur, including possible damages to road surfaces and power lines. Environmental impacts include strain on local plant and wildlife, including potential for illness or death.
Continuity of Operations (including Continued Delivery of Services) Property, Facilities and Infrastructure
Environment
Wake County, NC Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan
WSP June 2024 Page 123
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