Heatscapes is an ongoing photo story that catalogs Miami's urban heat island effect documenting how the urban and natural environment affects Miamians’ livelihoods amidst worsening heat.

Miami, known for its vibrant diverse culture and landscapes, is facing a growing threat that intensifies each passing year: extreme heat. The statistics paint a stark reality - in the summer of 2021 alone, Miami experienced a staggering 60 days with temperatures at or above 90°F. The past several years have displayed worsening heat. The relentless heat and high humidity have transformed Miami into a hotbed for heat-related health risks, making it one of the most heat-vulnerable cities in the world. "Urban heat islands" occur when cities replace natural land cover with dense concentrations of pavement, buildings, and other surfaces that absorb and retain heat. Neighborhoods with higher temperatures in Miami coincide with historically "redlined" areas, mainly composed of people of color and other immigrant minorities like myself. With gentrification catalyzing a slew of construction, low-income neighborhoods lose tree canopy coverage, and in return, gain heat.

As part of my last role at Miami-Dade County’s Office of Resilience, I got to work with Jane Gilbert, the first Chief Heat Officer, on a new Urban Forestry Plan to adapt to extreme heat. Using tree canopy coverage as a climate solution is just one way to improve resilience against heat related illnesses and extreme heat.