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

Introduction and ObjectivesThe incidence of heat-related illness continues to rise, disproportionately affecting older adults, marginalized racial and ethnic groups, low-income communities, and individuals with chronic medical conditions. Urban heat islands (UHIs) are urban areas with higher ambient temperatures than surrounding regions. This study aims to identify heat vulnerability factors among populations living in UHIs in Dallas, Texas.MethodsA community-based, cross-sectional survey was conducted at three health fairs in Dallas, Texas from April to October 2025. Data was self-reported.ResultsA total of 78 survey responses were collected. The sample was predominantly female (81.8%) and Hispanic/Latino (58.4%), with most participants reporting low-income status. Although most respondents had home air conditioning (93.6%), nearly half limited or avoided use due to electricity costs (47.4%). Some reported outdoor non-air-conditioned work (30.8%) or mobility limitations affecting access to cooling (12.8%). Only 42.3% knew the location of the nearest cooling center, and only 37.2% were aware of resources to help with power bills.ConclusionsThis assessment demonstrates that heat vulnerability in Dallas extends beyond environmental exposure and is driven by energy poverty, limited resource awareness, and structural inequities. Despite access to air conditioning, financial barriers and preparedness gaps constrain adequate heat responses.