Presenters:
Mia Fong
University of Southern California
As climate change intensifies, the number of extreme heat days (with maximum temperature >95 degrees F) annually in L.A. is projected to triple by 2060. Extreme heat can be deadly, especially for marginalized communities that are disproportionately exposed to adverse environmental conditions. These community members are more vulnerable as they may not be aware of available resources and adaptation strategies. In an effort to reduce this knowledge gap and empower communities, I created a set of StoryMaps in tandem with community partners in three environmental justice communities in L.A., namely Pacoima, South L.A., and Wilmington, under the Prioritizing Local Action for Climate Equity (PLACE) Study to disseminate information about the impacts of extreme heat, how different socioeconomic characteristics influence vulnerability, and provide resources.
The StoryMaps are written based on concerns identified by the literature and community members and use clear, non-scientific language. While maps alone are an effective means of communicating climate change and its risks, pairing maps with narrative and dynamic images further promotes understanding. These StoryMaps are the result of collaboration with community-based organizations, and demonstrate a fruitful university-community partnership. Most importantly, they increase awareness and encourage advocacy related to urban heat.
