Fighting past inequities, New York, like Phoenix, struggles to acclimate to rising heat

In the face of rising temperatures, New York City, similar to Phoenix, is forced to reckon with historical and ongoing inequities. The article spotlights Anieto Henvill, a Caribbean native who finds solace and sustenance in Seton Falls Park, where she gathers mushrooms during a summer of extreme heat. The park's trees provide a vital cooling effect, lowering temperatures by over 10 degrees compared to surrounding areas, which is crucial during the city's notoriously humid heat waves. Henvill describes this summer's conditions as akin to being in a microwave, highlighting the severe impact of humidity on the body's ability to cool itself. The article discusses how urban heat islands, primarily caused by concrete and asphalt, exacerbate the heat crisis, adding 2.

3 degrees to local temperatures. It also underscores the importance of preserving green spaces in urban settings to combat heat and promote community well-being. By framing the narrative around the experiences of individuals like Henvill, the article illustrates the broader implications of climate change on marginalized communities. Ultimately, it serves as a call to action for addressing the intertwined challenges of climate change and social inequity.