Sustainability

Cold snaps and heat waves can be as disruptive or deadly as any other climate event. In Asheville, we’re seeing increasing high temperatures in the summer and unpredictable fluctuations year round. Older residents, pregnant people, young children, people with unreliable heating or cooling systems, and neighbors with health challenges can be particularly vulnerable to extreme temperatures. Taking steps to weatherproof your home, identifying community resources, and knowing what action to take during extreme weather conditions can make a big difference.

Urban Heat Island Effect: 

City centers with more concrete and less trees attract and trap heat.  On extremely hot days, Asheville’s downtown area and neighborhoods with less tree canopy can be especially dangerous. Check out the Climate Justice Data Map to learn more about your neighborhood’s heat vulnerability index. 

Take Action! 

Reduce Risks 

• Install weatherstripping and insulation to block outdoor heat and cold. 
• Use curtains to insulate your home and control sunlight, helping to regulate indoor temperatures.
• Install fans or AC, and designate a “cool room” to keep your family and pets safe.
• Recognize the signs of heat or cold-related illness – if you experience them seek shelter and help.

• • Heat – dizziness, shortness of breath, muscle pains or heat cramps 
  • Cold – hypothermia signs include uncontrollable shivering, slurred speech, drowsiness, and disorientation  

Have a plan, stay informed & stay safe

• Watch for “Code Purple Alerts” signaling extreme cold and providing enhanced services to protective measures such as sheltering and bus service
• Libraries, community centers, and other public spaces may offer daytime respite during extreme temperatures.

Car safety

• Heat: Check the back seat!  Never leave kids or pets in a parked car- even with the windows down.
• Cold or blizzard: Pack an emergency kit in your car w/blanket, window scraper, flashlight, water, and flares.

Download this quick reference chart for ideas on how you can address our known risks with your family actions and property improvements.

EXTREME TEMPERATURES	Cost	Time Range
Create shade	Low to Moderate	Moderate
Cool or heat the air	Low to High	Moderate
Car safety	Low	Low
Recognize the signs of heat and cold related illness	Low	Low
Know where you can go to get cool or warm	Low	Low