Dallas is set to host World Cup matches, but unsuspecting fans may face a hidden health hazard on their walk to the stadium. While weather apps indicate a manageable 90 degrees Fahrenheit, the pavement under their feet will likely be closer to 122 F.
Urban Heat Island
A study conducted by CAPA Strategies in August 2023 found that temperatures in Dallas can fluctuate by as much as 10 F depending on environmental factors. The study highlighted the impact of urbanization on heat levels, with land for commercial use and infrastructure concentrating heat throughout the day.
According to Jennifer Dunn, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, "Concrete can actually absorb some of that heat, especially if you come across blacktop or that kind of colored surface that you’re walking on. That will absorb and reflect that, and that can raise the temperature even more on those surfaces."
Surviving the Heat
Fans attending Dallas matches are advised to take precautions to counter the worst effects of the heat. Dunn recommended wearing lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, taking breaks, and using cooling towels, misters, or other heat mitigation accessories.
Fans do have the comfort of knowing that matches in Dallas are played indoors, sparing them from the worst of the heat as they watch their team. However, the hottest part of the day in northern Texas is between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., during which fans will be traveling to or from the stadium.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
