Heat wave in Vienna: people of Turkish origin suffer particularly badly!

Heat wave in Vienna: people of Turkish origin suffer particularly badly!

A new study shows that the heat in Vienna particularly affected the population with a Turkish migrant background. According to the results compiled jointly by members of the universities BOKU, the University of Vienna and MedUni Vienna, these people find the heat in the urban environment particularly stressful. Housing conditions in particular play a major role, as many live in heavily sealed and sparsely green areas, which makes the situation even more difficult. In physically demanding jobs where there is often no heat protection, the effects of high temperatures are even more noticeable reports MyDistrict.

The study, for which 400 people were surveyed in four Vienna parks such as Donauinsel and Augarten, shows that people with a Turkish migrant background not only perceive higher heat stress, but also report greater increases in hot days and tropical nights. Your living spaces become particularly hot, which leads to increased stress. In addition, they do not adapt their behavior optimally to high temperatures and rarely forgo physical activities outdoors adds BOKU.

The “Heat Toolbox”

To address this issue, a bilingual “Heat Toolbox” was developed, which is available in both German and Turkish. This toolbox offers helpful city maps of cool places, tips for adapting to the heat, and delicious recipes for warm days. Practical recommendations include keeping windows closed during the day and only ventilating at night or early in the morning. External shading could reduce heat exposure by up to 90 percent. Information about drinking fountains and cooling options is also provided in the materials provided says the city of Vienna.

A key problem, however, is the urban climate, which results in high temperatures and low wind speeds due to dense development and sparse vegetation. This phenomenon, known as “urban heat island,” is further exacerbated by climate change. Since 2001, Vienna's environmental protection department has launched various initiatives to improve the city's summer climate. This includes green roofs and facades as well as the creation of shady areas in residential areas reports the city administration.

Recommendations for city policy

The study recommends that city policymakers be made more aware of the dangers of heat stress. Access to water sources should be made easier and green spaces should be better developed. In addition, measures to improve room temperatures and create shady areas are crucial so that residents can get through the hot months more gently.

This multi-perspective approach is important in order to best support all Viennese people - especially the groups that are most affected - and to get them through the hot days.