Understanding the Dangers of Extreme Heat A beautiful hot summer day can be very welcome and enjoyable but when does warm weather become a threat? Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can push the human body beyond its natural limits and, in severe cases, lead to death. Under normal conditions, the body responds to high temperatures by sweating, which helps cool it down. However, in situations of intense heat combined with high humidity, this natural cooling system can become overwhelmed and sweat is not produced. When the body can’t regulate its temperature effectively, it may experience dangerous reactions.