Assessing the state of extreme heat planning in Virginia (USA) through the lens of hazard mitigation plans

Climate change and urbanization are increasing the risks associated with extreme heat, threatening human lives and well-being. However, limited prior exposure to extreme heat events is resulting in underappreciation and unpreparedness in many localities. Using hazard mitigation plans as a proxy, we assess the preparedness of different localities in Virginia for the risks posed by extreme heat. Our plan evaluation involves measuring the quality of 20 Planning Districts’ hazard mitigation plans in Virginia in terms of extreme heat diagnosis, analysis, planning and implementation, based on a set of criteria derived from previous studies and mandates required by FEMA. Our results reveal that while the risk of extreme heat in Virginia is increasing, this risk is not recognized as a high or immediate priority in many plans. Our analysis further demonstrates that the insufficient recognition of the risk associated with extreme heat led to the absence of proper heat mitigation strategies. The findings of this study highlight the necessity for more in-depth evaluations of hazard mitigation plans regarding extreme heat and the importance of including various overlooked measures in those plans, which could ultimately assist local jurisdictions in developing efficient heat risk reduction policies and moving toward resiliency.