Charlotte Heat Study Reveals Roads and Parking Lots Drive City Temps Up 14 Degrees

Paved surfaces make Charlotte 14 degrees warmer than its green spaces, new research shows. Scientists studied nearly 300,000 roofs and thousands of miles of streets across the city.

"This work is critical, especially for our most vulnerable communities, and it is energizing to collaborate with a group equally as passionate about preserving our environment," said Mayor Vi Lyles per WCNC.com.

Dark surfaces absorb most sunlight, turning neighborhoods into heat traps. When rain falls, these materials block water absorption, increasing flood risks. City officials now plan changes with help from surface experts.

Adding trees and white roofs could drop summer heat by 6.6 degrees. Such changes would cut medical costs by $368 million and slash power bills by $360 million. Solar panels would bring extra savings.

"The city has been implementing smart surfaces like cool roofs, solar and tree preservation for many years," said Chief Resilience & Sustainability Officer Heather Bolick. She pointed out that recent data helped find spots needing quick fixes.

Hot weather hits poor areas hardest. Old rules from the 1930s blocked loans in Black and immigrant areas. This led to fewer trees and parks where they lived.

State health records from 2024 show more Black residents got sick from heat. Middle-aged men and seniors faced the highest risks during hot spells.

"Designing healthier cities is paramount in the reality of our rapidly warming world," said Georges C. Benjamin, MD, executive director of the American Public Health Association. "Outdated, heat-trapping surfaces put millions at risk — especially in underserved neighborhoods."

Smart changes could save the city a billion dollars. Work continues across the U.S. to make cities cooler and safer for everyone.