Urban Heat Islands

Urban Heat Islands occur in areas with large amounts of asphalt and concrete which raise surrounding air temperatures. Residents are affected outside and in their homes. Urban heat is caused by an increase in surfaces that absorb heat, not climate change.

According to a recent survey, more than 50% of Las Crucians are adversely affected by extreme heat. Paved streets can make summer temperatures feel like 140°F in summer afternoons. 

MORE INFORMATION

As part of a NASA satellite study, a project team created an urban heat island map of Las Cruces with special overlays examining vulnerable populations. 

NOAA and CAPA Strategies helped Las Cruces map urban heat patterns in the morning, afternoon, and early evening.