AP-NORC poll: Extreme heat disrupts lives most in West and Midwest

A new AP-NORC poll finds Americans increasingly report extreme heat disrupting daily life, with the biggest impacts in the West and Midwest. About 8 in 10 say extreme heat raised electricity bills, up from 69% in July 2024; 4 in 10 say travel plans were affected, 7 in 10 outdoor activities. Much of the shift was in the West and Midwest; Democrats reported stronger impacts. Belief that climate change is happening stood at 66%, down from 73% in September 2025; 15% say it isn't happening. Scientists say heat has killed thousands yearly.