Urban Heat Islands Pose Growing Threat to Tropical Cities Amid Climate Change
Urban Heat Islands Pose Growing Threat to Tropical Cities Amid Climate Change
IN · Published Aug 13, 2026
• Urban heat islands (UHIs) are intensifying the heat burden in tropical cities like Mumbai, Lagos, and Jakarta, where artificial surfaces such as concrete and asphalt trap heat during the day and release it at night.
• This phenomenon, combined with the 2026-2027 El Niño, is expected to bring record-breaking temperatures to these regions, exacerbating the risks for vulnerable populations.

Impact & Risks

The combination of urban heat islands, global warming, and the intensifying El Niño event poses severe risks to tropical cities, including Mumbai. Vulnerable populations, particularly those in informal settlements, are at risk of heat-related illnesses such as dehydration, heatstroke, and cardiovascular issues. The lack of financial resources in many tropical cities limits their ability to implement effective cooling solutions, exacerbating the impact of extreme heat. This situation highlights the growing disparity between wealthy and poorer cities in addressing climate-related challenges.

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