Keep Jackson Cool!
One of the main health threats from changing climate is extreme heat events, which kills hundreds every year across the US. Without climate action, the global average temperature is expected to rise 7.7˚F, increasing the frequency, severity and duration of these heat waves. Basic behavioral and environmental measures are essential for preventing heat-related illness and death. Jackson is in a humid, subtropical climate zone with a long season of high temperatures and humidity, extending from early May to late September. During that time, we experience dangerous heat waves, where the heat index is above 95oF. Just this past August, the heat index reached 118 degrees (reported by the National Weather Service). According to a tool developed by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Esri, the City of Jackson (approximated as Hinds County) is experiencing up to 47 days with temperatures above 95˚F. This number will rise by 2030 to 58 days (or more when considering humidity.)
Urban Heat Island Mapping in Jackson, MS
Extreme heat is not “an equal opportunity” threat as it disproportionally affects disadvantaged communities. Formerly redlined neighborhoods are often hotter than the non-redlined neighborhoods -- some by nearly 8 degrees. This project maps urban heat islands in Jackson, MS.
Going Green for a Cool, Health Jackson, MS
We are managing a project funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation,
designed to reduce the existing inequalities in extreme heat exposure in Jackson by developing "green infrastructure" (parks, tree lines, vertical gardens, rooftop gardens etc.)
Extreme Heat Preparedness Plan for Jackson, MS
The purpose of this project is to develop a plan of action in case of extreme heat emergency by building community resilience for our local environmental and socio-economic circumstances in Jackson, MS.