For Many Urban Residents, It’s Even Hotter Than Their Weather App Says
New research from environmental engineers at Duke's Pratt School of Engineering has discovered that "citizen science tools" used to measure heat in urban areas are likely underestimating the exact temperature, particularly in "urban heat islands." These communities have more buildings, less vegetation and somewhat higher population density, which when put all together increase temperatures. The research, analyzing data from the National Integrated Heat Health Information System (NIHHIS) and CAPA Strategies, indicates that areas with fewer weather stations--typically lower-income urban areas--are likely to be even hotter than what's currently being reported.