Heat and transportation

During heatwaves, everyday life tends to feel more difficult than on an average day. Research evidence consistently suggests roads, trips and daily commutes can become more dangerous on very hot days compared with an average day.

This systematic literature review consolidates current knowledge and identifies research gaps regarding heat impacts across transportation asset classes.

This Issue Note presents a summary of the effects of heatwaves on transportation infrastructure and offers strategies for mitigation and adaptation.

Utilities and system operators must identify and implement short-term solutions that can maintain reliability and keep prices down while new infrastructure projects are built.

Hot air makes it harder for engines to get a plane airborne – a problem that is set to get more common as the climate warms.

Electric utilities across the United States are shutting off power to a growing number of households, according to a recent report that also found most shutoffs happened during last year’s record-hot summer.

Summer 2024's record heat is creating problems for transportation infrastructure, from roads to rails.

Melting roads and buckling rails are disrupting travel, with the most vulnerable populations affected the worst. A concerted approach is needed to keep people moving as the world gets hotter.

Airports around the world are relocating sensitive electrical equipment to rooftops to protect it from flooding, reinforcing runways to handle extreme temperature swings and revving up air conditioning as climate change complicates operations.

A heatwave in the Gaza Strip with temperatures reaching 38°C has worsened power outages and sparked calls for protests from residents who lack electricity for cooling.