Urban Heat Islands Exacerbate City Temperatures by Up to 9 Degrees

Millions in major US cities face intensified heat due to urban infrastructure and lack of green spaces.

Urban areas with concrete and asphalt experience significantly higher temperatures than rural surroundings.
New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago are among the cities with the highest urban heat island effects.
Vulnerable populations, including people of color and low-income residents, are disproportionately affected.
Extreme heat in cities increases health risks such as heatstroke and heat exhaustion.
Potential solutions include planting more trees and creating green spaces to mitigate heat retention.