Things are heating up — in more ways than one. It’s been ~1 year since Nashville kicked off its heat mapping campaign, an effort to measure the temperature and humidity levels throughout Davidson County.
In April, the city launched an interactive StoryMap detailing extreme heat events and the risk they pose to Nashvillians. Now, the city is testing products to combat the issue.
We’re answering the burning questions. Read: What the campaign entailed and what’s in the works.
The three W’s
Why: Heat waves pose the biggest threat compared to other weather-related hazards and can worsen during climate change. Cities in particular experience hotter temperatures than rural areas due to heat islands, the trapping of heat among tall buildings, and lots of concrete.
Where: The campaign included the 10 routes you see above.
Who: Local experts, nonprofits, and researchers teamed up with community scientists and volunteers to drive three one-hour routes, using sensors to gauge the temperature and humidity.
Nashville was one of 14 cities chosen for last summer’s project, which was funded by NOAA’s Climate Program Office and National Integrated Heat Health Information System. See the results.
City solutions
Metro is working to subside the negative effects of high temperatures across Nashville. Here’s what various city entities are working on:
🚘 This week, NDOT tested an asphalt sealcoat that cools pavement surface temps. Other priorities include increased vegetation, and in turn, shading.
🌳 This year, Metro Parks has completed or started work on one-third of a planned 35-mile urban greenway loop connecting neighborhoods.
Looking to get involved? Take the Nashville heat perceptions survey. Your response will be included in the StoryMap to show how our neighbors respond and behave during extreme heat events.