Tag Archives: Heat island effect

Turning Up the Heat – Adapting to Hotter Temps across SLC

As the summer heat continues, it’s important to understand how to deal with extreme temperatures and why they are becoming more frequent every year. We have seen Salt Lake County’s average summer temperature increase by 3.9° F since 1985, while the U.S. average has increased by 1.5°F. 

What is the Urban Heat Island Effect? 

Have you ever noticed how the city feels much hotter than surrounding areas? That feeling is thanks to the urban heat island effect. The heat island effect is a phenomenon that leads to higher temperatures in urban areas compared to rural areas. This temperature difference is due to the greater presence of heat-absorbing surfaces, like large buildings and pavement, and not as much vegetation and green space in a city. The high density of buildings within cities also makes it harder for temperatures to decrease at nighttime. 

How is Heat Distributed in SLC?

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Mapping Urban Heat Islands

By SLCgreen Interns Frances Benfell, Emma Johnson, and staff Jude Westwood

Picture of two people outside holding a heat watch sensor and guide.

When my friend Tia made plans to spend the weekend in Salt Lake City, she didn’t know what she was in for. A few days before her visit, I texted her and asked, “How do you feel about waking up at 5:30 am to go heat mapping with me on Saturday?” She responded, “I don’t know what that is, but as long as you buy me coffee!”  

As we drove to pick up our heat sensor on a Friday afternoon in mid-July, I explained the project to Tia. We were volunteering to drive one of ten routes across Salt Lake City with a sensor attached to our car that would measure temperature, humidity, and location along the way. Our role (along with over 40 other volunteers) was to gather data for a citizen science research project funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Salt Lake City was one of 18 communities chosen to participate in this year’s mapping project. Over 60 communities have participated since the program started in 2017. 

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