As with all major cities across the world, Memphis is feeling the effects of climate change. Extreme heat, one of the primary climate-related threats to public health, has only worsened in recent years and is set to continue on that trend. In addition, the impacts of heat are felt disproportionately amongst residents depending on social and demographic differences meaning that as our summers get hotter, the most vulnerable and disadvantaged populations in Memphis and Shelby County will bear the worst of the burden.

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To begin to address this hazard, The Works, Inc., U of M, and OSR are working together to conduct a Heat Watch campaign, an initiative funded by CCHM and CAPA Strategies. Under this program, the project partners were chosen to receive funding to engage with community members and collect local ambient air temperature data around the Memphis area. On Campaign Day, volunteers will drive around the county on pre-designated routes with sensors attached to their cars in either the morning, afternoon, or evening to capture heat patterns throughout the day. Interested in contributing? Read more information about participating here and click here to access the interest form. Upon completion of the campaign, the team at CAPA Strategies will produce high-resolution data on temperature and humidity in Memphis and a tailored report analyzing the heat distribution across the city. These products will help residents, stakeholders, and decision-makers alike gain a better understanding of how extreme heat impacts our city and where focus needs to be channeled to mitigate it. 

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As the project progresses, the campaign results and final report will be posted here, so check back in for updates!

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