"Urban Heat Wave Alarm: Cities' Most Vulnerable Residents Face Higher Risk of Death. As heat waves become increasingly common and severe, cities are grappling with the harsh reality that some neighborhoods are disproportionately affected. Residents in "heat-vulnerable" areas, often characterized by a lack of trees, minimal shade, and limited access to air-conditioning, are facing a disproportionate risk of heat-related illnesses and even death. These communities, often already struggling with socioeconomic challenges, are now being pushed to the brink by the sweltering temperatures, highlighting the urgent need for urban planners to develop targeted solutions to mitigate the impact of heat waves on the most vulnerable populations."
Heat-vulnerable” parts of the city have few trees, little shade and limited access to air-conditioning. And the risk of death is also higher.