2025 Reports

High Resolution Heat Stress over a Sahelian City: Present and Future Impact Assessment and Urban Green Effectiveness

Souverijns, Niels; De Ridder, Koen; Takacs, Sacha; Veldeman, Nele; Crols, Tomas; Michielsen, Marthe; Foamouhoue, André K.; Nshimirimana, Godefroid; Dan Dijé, Ibrahim; Tidjani, Hassoumi

This study delves into the pressing issue of heat stress in Sahel cities, with a specific focus on Niamey, Niger. It combines advanced modeling techniques and on-ground measurements to provide a detailed current and future outlook. Notably, the study identifies urban green spaces and trees as effective tools for mitigating heat stress, particularly during peak daytime temperatures. However, future projections indicate a worrisome increase in the intensity and spatial extent of extreme temperatures within the city, leading to more days with extreme heat stress. This has socio-economic implications, including higher heat-related mortality and negative economic impacts due to reduced productivity during hot hours. The study underscores the need for proactive measures to address the escalating heat stress challenge in Niamey.