The state and future of extreme heat studies in Southeast Asian megacities: risk, impacts and adaptation strategies in a warming world

Abstract Southeast Asian cities are increasingly affected by heat-related phenomena and various climate-related disasters; however, research on urban heat in this region remains limited compared to other areas. This paper employs bibliometric and thematic analyses to investigate studies on extreme heat in mega-urban areas of Southeast Asia, focusing on the risks and impacts faced by vulnerable populations and their adaptation and mitigation strategies. The bibliometric analysis visualises the research landscape, identifying key clusters and highlighting prevalent themes and gaps. It reveals a predominant emphasis on characterising extreme heat and analysing urban temperature variations through satellite and meteorological data, underscoring a significant lack of research on the socio-economic factors affecting at-risk communities. The thematic analysis further examines how existing studies address these socio-economic vulnerabilities and evaluates the adaptation strategies employed, particularly concerning land use changes driven by population growth. Our findings indicate that, while studies address urban heat in Southeast Asia, their quantity is relatively small compared to the extensive research focused on other regions. Strategies to mitigate the effects of extreme heat on mental and social well-being emphasise the importance of green infrastructure and public spaces. There is also a pressing need to enhance urban planning and design to ensure adaptation measures include at-risk, lower-income communities. Understanding the complexities of the risks and impacts of extreme heat on urban populations is crucial for developing effective, context-specific adaptation strategies that prioritise the needs of vulnerable populations and promote equitable, sustainable urban development.