Hot Girl Spring…but it’s too Hot to Play 🎾

April 2026

Girl, it’s too hot and it's only getting worse. Spring isn’t supposed to feel like this. But across the United States, temperatures are already climbing past seasonal norms and according to NOAA Climate Prediction Center, spring 2026 is shaping up to be unusually warm, with “heat dome” conditions looming in many regions.

And as always, the heat won’t hit everyone the same. Communities of color are expected to bear the brunt of these rising temperatures, facing higher exposure and fewer resources to cope. This isn’t just about discomfort and health outcomes. It’s also reshaping how, when, and even if people can participate in everyday activities like sports.

Environmental justice is sports justice. Access to sports isn’t just about interest or ability, it’s shaped by the environments people live in. As extreme heat becomes more common, the question shifts from who wants to play to who can safely play. Who has access to shaded courts, indoor facilities, or even consistent hydration resources? In many cases, wealthier and often whiter communities benefit from climate-controlled training spaces, better-maintained facilities, and the flexibility to adjust schedules around dangerous weather.

Meanwhile, underserved communities are left navigating compounding barriers: exposed outdoor courts, limited resources, and fewer protections against rising temperatures. What looks like a simple game quickly becomes another site where inequality plays out.

This growing gap hasn’t gone unnoticed, Black women athletes like Allyson Felix and Coco Gauff are using their platforms to speak out, highlighting how inequality and environmental conditions are shaping who gets to compete.

Protect yourself this spring + summer! Here are 5 things to check before you head outside!

1. Air quality and heat can turn a good practice into a health risk. Take 2 minutes to check the AGI for your zip code. If it’s above 100, limit intense activity. Above 150, go inside.

2. Plan to go out in the morning. Ozone and heat peak in the afternoon. Earlier is always a safer option.

3. Drink water before you feel thirsty. By the time you’re thirsty, you’re already behind. Start hydrated.

4. Wear light, breathable clothing. Dark or heavy fabrics trap heat. Sunscreen too, every time!

5. Know the Warning Signs. If you experience shortness of breath, chest tightness, watery eyes, please stop and move inside.