Can the heat, keep cool this summer

Do you remember how hot it was last summer? So far this year we have been enjoying cooler temperatures, but due to climate change, extreme heat events are on the rise. And very hot weather can seriously harm your health, as well as our environment. 

 

Urban neighborhoods such as Frogtown, Midway and Como are prone to heat island effects. The term “heat island” refers to urbanized areas that experience higher temperatures compared to outlying areas. Roads, buildings and other infrastructure absorb and reflect more solar heat than areas with more natural landscapes. Urban areas with concentrated infrastructure and limited green space literally become heated islands, registering temperatures up to 25 degrees hotter than shaded natural areas. 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency lists these environmental detriments of heat islands: increased energy consumption; higher emissions of air pollutants and greenhouse gases; impaired water quality; and compromised human health. While this sounds (and is) serious, there’s a lot we can do to protect ourselves and our loved ones from the effects of hotter weather.

 

During hot weather it’s especially important to check on family, friends and neighbors. Calling on vulnerable people such as the elderly, those with medical conditions, or those lacking access to air conditioning can help prevent heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion, stroke or even death. Keeping hydrated, cooling off in the shade, and staying informed about weather are front-line methods of combatting potential heat-related health hazards. 

Additionally, follow National Weather Service advisories. Be aware of cooling center locations, and make use of methods to block heat and sunlight such as blackout curtains, shades, awnings or cardboard in windows. Green roofs that reflect the sun’s rays and energy efficient appliances are more ways to take significant action.

 

An effective, sustainable way to combat heat island effects is by planting trees. Deciduous trees provide shade in warm months yet allow sun exposure in fall and winter after leaf fall. They’re great at soaking up stormwater and lowering air temperature by providing shade. They also cool the air around them, via water evaporation from their leaves.

Are you interested in obtaining one of nature’s air conditioners? Households in Frogtown can get a free tree planted in their yard by signing up at Frogtown Green’s website under its urban forestry program. Frogtown Green is a resident-led, volunteer-powered green organization that has planted over 1,000 trees in Frogtown homes and public spaces.

Extreme heat events are expected to become more common and extreme as a consequence of climate change. The Minnesota Department of Health offers lots of tips and educational tools to help combat effects of extreme heat events. Help yourself and others keep cool this summer!

Combat the heat. Plant a tree. Frogtown homeowners can learn more at:

Rennie Gaither is a Frogtown Green volunteer. Frogtown Green is a resident-led and volunteer-powered environmental initiative in St Paul’s most diverse neighborhood. If you’d like to know more, browse frogtowngreen.com or call 651-757-5970. For more detail on the Bee Line, see hamlinemidway.org/news/hmec/beeline