Urban heat

New analysis from Ordnance Survey has found more than eight in ten cities in Great Britain are already highly vulnerable to urban heat islands, and almost two thirds are set to reach severe heat vulnerability by the turn of the century.

Using social media and meteorological data, this study quantifies the mismatch between physical heat exposure and public emotional responses from 2010 to 2024 in China.

This toolkit provides a practical, step-by-step framework to support cities, urban local governments, planners, practitioners, and community stakeholders in developing and implementing Heat Action Plans (HAPs) to address the growing risks of extreme heat.

Three cities are learning from each other about how to protect residents. These climate policies are also public health measures.

As heat overlaps with other intensifying climate events, scientists are uncovering how they compound each other – and how cities can adapt

Contemporary transportation infrastructure is not designed for the extreme levels of heat as the frequency and severity of high temperatures increases. Those in charge must respond to increased stress on infrastructure systems, with mitigation techniques

Long-term maintenance plans, clear ownership responsibilities and funding for stewardship may prove as important as the installation. Climate adaptation isn’t just about building infrastructure, but ensuring it continues to thrive for years to come.

Researchers found that canals cool their immediate surroundings during the day, typically extending 20–50 m from canal banks. Cooling effect is greater during spring and early summer and is noticeable during heatwaves, with cooling of more than 2°C.