How Cities Are Beating the Heat

"Bright colors reflect light and dark ones absorb it, making surfaces heat up more. Painting black asphalt in different colors can lower the surrounding temperature by up to 9 degrees Fahrenheit (5 Celsius). Sao Paulo, Brazil This trick can also reduce the risk of train derailments. Tracks sometimes deform in high heat but painting parts of them white can shave off up to 18 degrees Fahrenheit (10 Celsius)."

"Another way to reduce the heat is to stop sun rays from getting to the ground in the first place. In Spain, cities hang white sheets between houses lining the narrow roads of historic city centers. Cologne, Germany Creating cool-off zones' A tried-and-true way to cool down is to get wet. Some cities, taking a cue from theme parks, have introduced mist sprayers that allow passers-by to do just that."

Record-breaking summer temperatures have increased in recent years, with 2025 continuing the trend. Cities are using low-cost, local solutions to reduce heat exposure. Repainting asphalt and tracks in lighter colors can lower surrounding temperatures by several degrees, reducing infrastructure stress and derailment risk. Shade measures such as hanging white sheets in narrow streets decrease solar heating. Water features and mist sprayers, plus temporary outdoor showers at businesses, provide immediate cooling for people. Large-scale tree planting has cooled regions modestly. Some communities use rivers for commuting and swimming, and urban waterways are being reopened for recreational cooling.

Read at www.nytimes.com