What Makes Cities So Hot?
This video is a part of Animated Atmosphere, a suite of short videos produced by the UCAR Center for Science Education with FableVision Studios.
A city can be several degrees warmer than the surrounding area. Learn how this phenomenon, called the urban heat island effect, occurs and find out what can be done to keep cities cool.
Transcript
A heatwave is a period of abnormally hot weather.
While heatwaves aren't as dramatic as most severe storms, they're just as dangerous.
Heatwaves can be hazardous to your health.
They can also trigger massively destructive wildfires that pollute the air.
Heatwaves are often more intense in cities,
where asphalt and concrete absorb, rather than reflect heat.
The frequency and intensity of heatwaves are increasing as Earth's climate gets warmer.
During a heat wave, stay cool, drink lots of water,
and reduce physical activity.
And check on family, neighbors, and pets, who may be at risk.