Indoor heat during power outages poses far greater danger than outdoor heat, with 85% of Austin homes reaching lethal temperatures for elderly people during a simulated three-day blackout in extreme heat. Even younger, healthy adults face serious risk—up to 65% of homes could become deadly if summer temperatures reach 104 F (40 C). The study found that poorly insulated older homes heat up rapidly and hold that heat overnight, leaving occupants without the recovery time they would get outdoors.
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A University of Texas study of Austin's 213,000 single-family homes found that 85% would get hot enough during a three-day heat wave and power outage to pose serious death risk to elderly occupants. About 15% of homes already pose heat risk to healthy adults under today's climate; that number jumps to as high as 65% if summer highs reach 104 F (40 C).
Why it matters
Most heat-related deaths occur indoors, not outside. When a power outage hits during extreme heat, a poorly insulated home traps warmth like a greenhouse, and indoor temperatures can climb well above outdoor readings. Unlike outside where temperatures cool at night, homes without air conditioning stay dangerously hot through the night, leaving occupants without recovery time—conditions that can become lethal after two or three nights.
What to watch
Climate projections for Austin show heat waves will double in frequency by end of century. The study proposes that new building codes should require homes to maintain survivable conditions for light physical activity for all occupants during a 72-hour power outage. Reflective window film, attic insulation, and lighter-colored roofing can reduce indoor heating.
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