News Summary
Las Vegas is facing critical urban heat challenges as temperatures rise, leading to a record number of heat-related deaths. The Nevada Heat Lab is spearheading efforts to address these issues through innovative solutions and community engagement. With a focus on enhancing cooling stations and improving public transit resilience, the team is working to combat the impacts of extreme heat on vulnerable populations. A proposed statewide office for extreme heat management aims to further these efforts, as Nevada seeks to implement effective interventions.
Las Vegas Tackles Urban Heat Challenges Amid Rising Temperatures
Las Vegas is facing an urgent need for heat resilience as temperatures continue to rise. The Nevada Heat Lab, established to address urban heat issues, has highlighted the critical vulnerabilities in the region’s public health and safety. In 2022, Southern Nevada recorded 527 heat-related deaths, emphasizing the necessity for effective interventions and proactive measures to combat extreme heat.
Under the direction of Ariel Choinard, who took over as the lab coordinator in 2023, the Nevada Heat Lab is working to incorporate urban heat challenges into policy discussions. Recognizing that Las Vegas lags behind other cities by approximately 10 to 15 years in addressing these problems, the lab aims to advocate for innovative solutions and collaborative efforts in heat management.
The Nevada Heat Lab, originally named the Southern Nevada Heat Resilience Lab, was rebranded to encourage participation across the state. The lab facilitates virtual debriefings with municipal governments and nonprofit organizations following extreme summer weather events, enhancing community response and preparedness.
The Team Behind the Initiative
Choinard leads a small team comprised of David Almanza, a postdoctoral researcher, and Cayenne Engel, a staff research scientist. Their role is akin to that of emergency managers, focusing on enhancing the effectiveness of existing cooling stations and expanding heat response measures. These cooling stations are mainly activated during extreme heat warnings; however, their visibility and availability often pose challenges during critical heat events.
Before spearheading the heat lab, Choinard served as Clark County’s first urban heat resilience fellow, working with local library systems to establish community cooling stations. His experience also includes substantial work with the Los Angeles Mayor’s Office of Resilience, where he concentrated on urban heat challenges.
Urban Heat and Its Impacts
Southern Nevada struggles with the phenomenon known as urban heat islands, where a lack of greenery contributes to heightened temperatures compared to surrounding rural areas. While studies highlight that extreme heat impacts all Las Vegas residents, societal perceptions often downplay the seriousness of the issue, leaving vulnerable populations exposed to its consequences.
In response to these challenges, the Nevada Heat Lab has implemented joint initiatives to distribute 4,000 transportation passes aimed at improving access to cooling centers. Nevertheless, securing consistent funding for heat response programs remains a persistent challenge, particularly as some initiatives depend on local government support. The lab currently operates with federal funding from NOAA, but the reliance on grants is becoming increasingly difficult as competition for resources intensifies.
Policy Developments and Future Plans
Assemblymember Cinthia Moore is planning to introduce a bill in 2027 aimed at establishing a statewide office for extreme heat management. A collaborative approach between state and municipal entities is also being explored to allocate resources effectively for heat resilience. Additionally, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen is advocating for federal changes that would classify extreme heat as a weather disaster, thereby allowing access to additional funding.
In light of the record temperature of 120 degrees registered last year, Nevada is implementing new regulations to protect workers and is planning extensive tree-planting efforts to mitigate urban heat. The Clark County coroner’s office is also refining procedures to ensure accurate documentation of heat-related fatalities, a critical step in understanding and addressing the impact of extreme heat.
Looking Ahead
Lab meetings are beginning to inspire discussions on improving public transit resilience during extreme heat events. Future research conducted by the Nevada Heat Lab may focus on assessing the economic impact of extreme heat on families, especially regarding how heat drives up energy costs.
Ultimately, Choinard aims to reshape public understanding of urban heat’s effects, stressing that while vulnerable populations are significantly at risk, extreme heat can impact various demographics across the community.
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LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER The LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELasVegas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Las Vegas, Clark County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Electric Daisy Carnival, World Series of Poker, and Consumer Electronics Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and Three Square Food Bank, plus leading businesses in hospitality and entertainment that power the local economy such as MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, and Las Vegas Sands. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Nevada's dynamic landscape.
