Extreme Heat

Extreme heat is a increasing risk as climate change intensifies, particularly for the many residents without access to air conditioning and for those who work outdoors. Prolonged exposure to heat can increase health risks, especially for seniors. There are important steps you can take to prepare for future heat waves and resources for staying cool.

Preparing for extreme heat

Heat advisories

Sign up for SMC Alert for disaster warnings by text, email, or phone, including flooding and other extreme weather.

Trees & “green infrastructure”

Trees can provide crucial shade and reduce temperatures in surrounding areas by several degrees among other benefits. EPA residents can also request free tree planting — see here to request one!

Replacing pavement with planted areas and soil — sometimes called “green infrastructure” — can also help reduce heat through the cooling effects of plants. See here for more information.

Air conditioning & “heat pumps”

Air conditioning is sometimes a necessity to stay cool in extreme heat, especially for residents with health needs or in warmer parts of the city. “Heat pump” air conditioning can be much more efficient than gas systems or older window-units and are often cheaper in the long-run. Many electric systems include both heating and cooling, and they can be used as a new system or an upgrade to an existing one. Residents can receive thousands of dollars in discounts on heat pump air conditioning units — see the Heating and Cooling page to learn more.

Staying cool

Keeping your home cool

For residents without access to air conditioning, fans can be a valuable way to stay cool both during the day and by bringing in cool air at night. They can also reduce or eliminate the need for air conditioning in some cases, saving money on high summer energy costs. Note that with indoor temperatures above 95F, fans will no longer help cool you down. Drawing dark shades can also help residents stay cool.

Finding shelter

During extreme heat, it is sometimes necessary to find a place with air conditioning if your own home does not have it.

• Community centers — The Senior Center (560 Bell St) and the Library (2415 University Ave) have air conditioning during their open hours.
• Resilience hubs — Climate Resilient Communities is currently working on establishing additional resilience hubs for residents to help expand options.
• Neighbors — If possible, staying with other neighbors who have air conditioning can also serve as an informal solution.