Maximum Heat in New York State (2010-2020)

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), in partnership with SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY ESF) and Davey Institute, is developing statewide extreme heat exposure maps and tools to identify urban heat islands.

Preliminary heat maps, depicting intensity of exposure only, are provided as non-decisional informational resources. The maps depict the maximum intensity of heat exposure, identified as the “hottest hour” for a geographic location between 2010 and 2020. To learn more about the "hottest hour" calculation or the i-Tree Cool Air temperature model, see the About page.

Select a county or an urban area from the map below to explore the US Census block group analysis of the maximum heat between 2010-2020. Each area provides ready-made maps and geospatial data for download and further analysis. Map layers can be toggled on and off using the legend in the top right corner.
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1Disadvantaged Communities (as of 2023) at the US Census tract level are outlined as part of New York's mission to ensure that frontline and otherwise underserved communities benefit from the state’s historic transition to cleaner, greener sources of energy, reduced pollution and cleaner air, and economic opportunities.
2Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) Regions are a key component of New York State's strategy for investing and economic development by empowering regional stakeholders.
3The color gradient was chosen for accessibility. Cool colors (blue, green) do not necessarily reflect ‘safe’ or ‘cold’ temperatures.

Statewide Downloads