The recent Heat and Health Index by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has highlighted that the highest heat risk in the U.S. is not always in the hottest areas like Arizona, Texas, or Florida. Surprisingly, the most vulnerable neighborhood is located in Idaho, according to the Biden administration’s assessment of 32,000 communities.
This new interactive map created by the CDC evaluates the heat vulnerability of each ZIP code in the mainland U.S. by considering various factors beyond just temperatures. Neighborhood characteristics such as asthma rates, income levels, tree cover, and smog play a significant role in determining heat risk within cities.
For example, a low-income ZIP code in East Harlem, New York City, is shown to be twice as vulnerable to heat-related health issues compared to the adjacent ZIP code in the Upper East Side, which is known for its affluence. Despite having similar weather conditions, the variations in demographics and local factors contribute to the disparity in heat vulnerability between these two neighborhoods.
Interestingly, ZIP code 83203 in southeast Idaho ranks as the most heat-vulnerable area, even though its temperatures have not reached 90 degrees yet this year. Social factors such as high rates of people without health insurance, lack of public transportation, and a significant population with limited English proficiency contribute to the heat danger in this region.
While the CDC’s Heat and Health Index provides valuable insights into heat vulnerability at the ZIP code level, it differs from other indices such as FEMA’s National Risk Index and the Census Bureau’s Community Resilience Estimates for Heat. These indices focus on different demographic conditions and natural hazards, but they all aim to assess a community’s ability to withstand extreme heat and other challenges.
It is important to note that the data used in these indices have limitations, including potential inaccuracies in self-reported and modeled meteorological data. Additionally, smaller populations in certain ZIP codes can lead to larger error margins in the assessment of heat vulnerability.
Overall, the CDC’s Heat and Health Index offers a comprehensive tool for local jurisdictions to prepare for extreme heat events and prevent heat-related illnesses and deaths. By understanding the unique local factors driving heat vulnerability, communities can take proactive measures to protect their residents and improve overall resilience to climate change impacts.
