Boston has recently experienced significant heatwaves, prompting the city to implement various measures to protect residents and address the challenges posed by extreme temperatures.
In mid-July, the National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for Boston, forecasting temperatures reaching the low 90s with high humidity. In response, Mayor Michelle Wu declared a heat emergency, urging residents to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during peak heat, and check on vulnerable neighbors. The city also opened cooling centers and splash pads to provide relief.
To enhance preparedness for future heat events, researchers from Mass General Brigham and IBM are developing an AI-driven tool designed to detect extreme temperatures in urban heat islands earlier. This initiative aims to provide timely alerts to residents in the hottest neighborhoods, guiding them toward nearby cooling centers or air-conditioned facilities. The tool is currently in development, with plans for a multilingual launch in 2026 and full deployment by 2027.
These efforts underscore Boston's commitment to safeguarding its residents against the escalating challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather events.