Climate change is intensifying heat waves globally, posing serious public health risks, especially in urban areas where heat is amplified by the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect. In Israel—where over 90% of the population lives in cities and temperatures are rising rapidly—heat exposure is a growing threat. Vulnerable groups, including the elderly and socioeconomically disadvantaged, are particularly at risk due to limited access to cooling infrastructure.
This study investigates the relationship between urban heat stress and public health outcomes in Beer Sheva, a hot-dry city in the Negev. Using remote sensing (MODIS and Landsat), GIS-based heat mapping, and microclimatic modeling (USAM), we identify urban heat exposure patterns. We integrate these findings with demographic, socioeconomic, and health data (e.g., mortality, hospitalization) to assess population vulnerability.
Preliminary findings show a significant correlation between heat waves and increased mortality among people aged 65+, underscoring the need for targeted interventions. We also apply text mining techniques to identify real-time health threats associated with extreme heat events, enhancing our understanding beyond traditional datasets.
Our goal is to create spatial models linking heat exposure and health outcomes, providing actionable insights for urban planners and public health officials. The study contributes tools and strategies for climate-resilient planning, focusing on underserved regions like the Negev. This research has been presented at international conferences and aims to support evidence-based policy and scientific publication.
