Heat Vulnerability and Community Resilience: A Survey Analysis in Dallas, Texas

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Urban Health
• Public Health

Background:

• Rising incidence of heat-related illness disproportionately affects vulnerable populations.
• Urban heat islands (UHIs) exacerbate ambient temperatures in city areas.
• Identifying specific heat vulnerability factors is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify heat vulnerability factors among populations residing in urban heat islands in Dallas, Texas.
• To understand the interplay between socioeconomic status, resource access, and heat risk.
• To inform public health strategies for mitigating heat-related illnesses in urban environments.

Main Methods:

• Community-based, cross-sectional survey conducted at health fairs in Dallas, Texas (April-October 2025).
• Self-reported data collected from 78 participants.
• Survey focused on demographics, home environment, work conditions, and awareness of cooling resources.

Main Results:

• The study sample was predominantly female (81.8%) and Hispanic/Latino (58.4%), with most reporting low-income status.
• While 93.6% had home air conditioning, 47.4% limited its use due to electricity costs.
• Awareness of cooling centers (42.3%) and utility assistance programs (37.2%) was low.

Conclusions:

• Heat vulnerability in Dallas UHIs is significantly influenced by energy poverty and limited awareness of available resources.
• Financial constraints and lack of preparedness hinder effective heat adaptation, even with access to air conditioning.
• Addressing structural inequities and resource accessibility is vital for enhancing community resilience to extreme heat.