Urban Heat Islands Worsen Risks in Tropical Cities Amid El Niño
Urban Heat Islands Worsen Risks in Tropical Cities Amid El Niño
SG · Published Aug 13, 2026
Urban heat islands (UHIs) are intensifying the heat burden in tropical cities, where artificial surfaces like concrete and asphalt trap heat during the day and release it at night, preventing cooling.
This issue is exacerbated by the 2026-2027 El Niño, which is expected to bring record-breaking temperatures to the tropics.

Impact & Risks

The intensifying UHI effects, combined with El Niño, pose severe health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions. Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to dehydration, heatstroke, and cardiovascular issues. Cities with limited resources, like Lagos, experience more severe UHI effects compared to wealthier cities like Singapore, where mitigation strategies are more advanced. The economic disparity in addressing these challenges raises concerns about environmental justice, as poorer populations bear the brunt of the impacts despite contributing less to global warming.

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