Missoula's Heat Map Reveals Urban Temperature Disparities Amid Climate Change
Researchers in Missoula, Montana, have developed the region's first heat map, revealing significant temperature variations across neighborhoods based on green space and shade. The study, conducted by Climate Smart Missoula in collaboration with local government and CAPA Strategies, highlights the 'heat island effect,' where urban areas with less vegetation experience higher temperatures. The initiative, funded by federal grants, aims to address the challenges posed by rising temperatures in a region historically unprepared for extreme heat. The findings show that neighborhoods with more trees, like the University District, are cooler than areas like downtown Missoula, which are more built-up. The research also indicates that unmanaged open lands can act as heat islands, exacerbating temperature disparities. 
