Socioeconomic indicators of heat-related health risk supplemented with remotely sensed data

This study evaluates a potential method for determining localized risk from extreme heat events (EHEs) in urban environments by integrating socio-demographic risk factors with estimates of land surface temperature.  Methods that provide more spatially specific information may better inform planning and intervention in areas where increased prevalence of heat-related illness and EHEs are likely to occur.

The report suggests the refinement of current risk assessment systems to increase the likelihood of survival during EHEs. The long-term goal of this application is to provide local emergency response personnel with a practical tool to better plan and prepare for heat waves by facilitating better resource allocation and tailoring of health communication messages to groups most at risk.

 

Publication Date: October 16, 2009

Authors or Affiliated Users:

  • Daniel P. Johnson
  • Jeffrey S. Wilson
  • George C. Luber

Related Organizations:

  • International Journal of Health Geographics

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Resource Category:

Resource Types:

  • Assessment guide

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