Urban Heat Island Study
In partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and CAPA Strategies, OEQS participated in an urban heat island (UHI) mapping campaign. The purpose of this study is to identify the hotspots in Dallas and look for equitable ways to implement cooling solutions in our communities. The urban heat island data helps decision makers take actions to reduce the health impacts of extreme heat, which often targets the most vulnerable.
On August 10, 2024, a team of about 100 volunteers helped measure heat levels across Dallas. In a collaborative effort with the Sierra Club & Texas Frees Foundation, volunteers mapped about 250 sq. mi. via 21 different routes around the city. Sensors, such as the ones seen in the photo, were used to measure heat at various times throughout the day.
Installed sensor for the 2024 Urban Heat Island Study
Volunteers during 2024 Urban Heat Island Study.
During the August 2023 event, City staff and approximately 70 volunteers navigated 9 routes in 3 separate time periods to collect data across 100 square miles of the City.
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Additional 2023 UHI Study Resources:
The City of Dallas Heat Intervention Guidebook identifies heat‑mitigation and adaptation best practices tailored to our humid‑subtropical climate.
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The guidebook outlines community‑scale strategies and actions to be taken by the City and other major stakeholders across several domains, including green infrastructure, the built environment, social programs, policy, emergency response, and community engagement.
Each strategy includes a brief description of the intervention; an assessment of relative cost, timeline, and environmental co-benefits; and tips and special considerations for effective implementation.
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The guidebook also includes a section on household‑scale strategies, offering practical guidance for individuals seeking to improve their personal heat resilience.
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Overall, the Heat Intervention Guidebook provides a comprehensive suite of strategies and best practices that City staff can use to support heat planning and implementation, both citywide and in specific neighborhoods placetypes. It also serves as a valuable foundation for future communication with decision‑makers, funders, and community members.