Adaptation Strategies in Vulnerable Communities to Heat Waves: Social Influential Factors, Challenges, and Opportunities from Citizen and Stakeholders' Perspectives

Abstract

The duration and intensity of heatwaves are accentuated by climate change, impacting vulnerable communities with limited adaptive capacities. While European countries and the USA have implemented heatwave plans, there is a lack of attention and action in developing countries. This paper analyzes the adaptive capacities to extreme heat in two cities in Northwest Mexico, Mexicali and Tijuana, focusing on household levels and public policy programs, integrating surveys in heat-vulnerable neighborhoods and semi-structured interviews with stakeholders. Results highlight high dependence on air conditioning in historically hotter places, resulting in economic and environmental burdens. Respondents indicated a preference for behavioral changes and increasing green area coverage. Participants had limited knowledge of the symptoms of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and first aid to help people experiencing heat illness. Stakeholder interviews revealed obstacles in public policy programs, such as a lack of formalization and financing. They also show that an updated policy requires commitment, long-term planning, and inter-institutional agreements. The biggest challenges relate to socially marginalized and disadvantaged people, migrants, and people experiencing homelessness. Recommended actions include developing equitable and inclusive green infrastructure, early warning systems, and strategies promoting community engagement. These findings are a valuable precedent for other dryland cities facing similar challenges.

Keywords: adaptive capacity, heatwaves, households, vulnerable people, perception, stakeholders, public policy