Columbia Residents Prepare for Rainy Weather and Urban Heat Solutions

Hello, Columbia! Let’s Talk About That Rainy Weather!

Well, it looks like the weather is switching gears today in Columbia, South Carolina! If you’re stepping outside, don’t forget an umbrella because the rain is making a grand entrance, and it’s not planning on leaving any time soon. As we prepare for a cozy evening ahead, the forecast reveals a low of 67°F and a 90% chance of rain. With wind speeds being light and variable, the rain might just bring a serenading sound as it falls.

All About Urban Heat – What’s the Scoop?

While many of us relish in the refreshing rain, it’s essential to bring our attention to a growing concern within our beloved city. You see, Columbia summers are no joke—especially when you’re walking around downtown. A recent citizen science effort found that downtown can feel as much as 18 degrees hotter than the charming suburban areas of Richland County. Shocking, right?

This rise in temperature points to a larger problem: the replacement of our green and absorbent surfaces with hard, dark ones, which heat up more quickly. As our city grows, the implications of these urban heat islands become increasingly concerning and can pose serious threats to public health. With fall just around the corner and temperatures dropping, the topic of urban heat remains at the forefront of many minds in our community.

Community Efforts to Combat Urban Heat

That’s where some amazing locals are stepping up to make a difference! The South Carolina Public Health Association (SCPHA) and Smart Surfaces Initiative are teaming up with a mission to combat urban heat through a series of community-focused strategies. Thanks to a special grant opportunity from the American Public Health Association, these organizations are diving deep into focus groups, local advocacy, community outreach, and education.

Intern Katie Schreiber from SCPHA shared insights on their goals, saying, “We want to get the word out about urban heat and the negative impacts it has on the City of Columbia.” She emphasized the importance of education, especially for community leaders, homeowners, and renters. It’s all about making sure everyone understands the impact urban heat has and what can be done to reduce it.

The Smart Surfaces Solution

So, what can we do to help? According to Schreiber, a major piece of the puzzle involves implementing more smart surfaces. These encompass various solutions, like reflective roofs and pavements, permeable pavements, and even planting more trees! These elements can significantly cool down areas and mitigate the urban heat effects.

Schreiber pointed out, “There is a lot of space within the city to work with to implement more smart surfaces. If we’re all aiming towards the same goal, we might as well work together.” Words of wisdom indeed!

Join the Conversation!

To keep the conversation going, the SCPHA smart surfaces team is hosting a webinar today at 2:00 p.m.. This event will focus on the relationship between heat and public health, diving deep into smart surfaces, the heat island effect, and ways the community can take proactive action. Participants can also earn continuing education credits while learning about valuable resources to combat heat challenges.

If you’re interested in making a difference in our community and tackling the urban heat together, don’t miss out! There’s a lot we can achieve when we bring our heads—and hearts—together!

Let’s Make a Difference

As we prepare for this rainy evening, let’s reflect on how we can contribute positively to our vibrant city of Columbia. Whether it’s participating in community events or simply staying informed, we all have a role to play in creating a healthier and more sustainable environment. Here’s to a beautiful, rainy day and a community that cares!