This project, under the supervision of Dr. Dana Habeeb, focuses on measuring the Urban Heat Island Effect in Bloomington, Indiana, and its impact on human health. The team is deploying Hobo-Logging site sensors and body sensors to study their correlative effects. Near-surface temperature is also measured using body sensors, with the broader mission of developing strategic goals to reduce the Urban Heat Island effect.

This EPA Climate Change Indicators report tracks heat wave trends across the United States from 1961 to 2023, analyzing four key characteristics: frequency, duration, season length, and intensity.

This project focuses on identifying and mapping Local Climate Zones (LCZs) in urban areas to better understand their unique climate characteristics and vulnerabilities. We use remote sensing data and ground-based observations to create detailed maps of LCZs, which can inform urban planning and sensor network deployment.

We leverage wearable sensors to collect real-time data on individual exposure to heat and environmental conditions. This data helps us understand the microclimates that people experience in urban areas, informing targeted interventions to mitigate heat impacts.

The Heat Preparedness Score Card is a tool designed to help communities assess their readiness for extreme heat events. By evaluating key indicators such as infrastructure, public health resources, and community engagement, the Score Card provides a comprehensive overview of a community's strengths and areas for improvement in heat preparedness.

The Heat Vulnerability Index is a tool designed to help communities assess their vulnerability to extreme heat events

The Heat Comment Survey is a tool designed to help communities gather feedback and insights from residents about their experiences and concerns related to extreme heat events.

Climate Personas are fictional characters created to represent different segments of the population that may be affected by extreme heat events. By understanding the unique needs and challenges faced by these groups, communities can develop targeted strategies to enhance resilience and support.

Table top exercises are interactive workshops designed for the heat task force of a city. They help participants simulate and plan for extreme heat events, fostering collaboration and enhancing preparedness.

We collaborated with the urban garden community to co-design a high density sensor network to monitor microclimate conditions in their gardens.

We conducted asset mapping exercises with community members to identify local resources, strengths, and opportunities related to extreme heat resilience.

This initiative emphasizes the importance of local and community change. The work demonstrates that impactful change at the local level can have significant regional effects, advocating for community-driven solutions to address extreme heat challenges.