Arizona State University Spearheads Initiative for State’s First Extreme Heat Preparedness Plan
TEMPE — In a groundbreaking move to bolster the state’s resilience against extreme weather conditions, Arizona is developing its inaugural Extreme Heat Preparedness Plan. Arizona State University’s Knowledge Exchange for Resilience has been selected to lead this vital initiative, extending an invitation for public participation to help shape robust and effective strategies.
The Governor’s Resiliency Office has entrusted the ASU center with the responsibility of initiating a public request for information process, aiming to amass a wide array of recommendations and solutions. This collaborative effort is a direct response to an executive order from Gov. Katie Hobbs, designed to fortify Arizona’s defenses against the increasing threat of extreme heat events.
Elizabeth Wentz, director of ASU’s Knowledge Exchange for Resilience, underscored the critical role of community engagement in this endeavor. “Our aim is to collectively ensure that Arizona, and particularly Maricopa County, sets a global standard for heat resilience,” she asserted. The public is encouraged to contribute their insights and recommendations through the dedicated website until Nov. 8.
This initiative follows a summer characterized by unprecedented heat, prompting Gov. Hobbs to declare a state of emergency and sign an executive order to enhance the state’s capacity to manage such extreme weather events. The executive order also led to the creation of an interagency resiliency forum, assembling representatives from various state agencies to collaboratively develop the preparedness plan.
The ASU Knowledge Exchange for Resilience is poised to play a pivotal role in this process, gathering public responses, research insights, and contributions from state and local agencies. This comprehensive input will lay the groundwork for Arizona’s Extreme Heat Preparedness Plan, slated for release on March 1, 2024.
With this initiative, Arizona is taking a decisive step forward in protecting its communities from the devastating impacts of extreme heat. The collaborative efforts between the state, Arizona State University, and the public demonstrate a united and proactive approach to climate resilience, establishing a model for comprehensive and effective heat preparedness.
