Heatwaves in the Paraíba Valley: Interactions Between Climate, Land Use, and Social Vulnerabilities

• Grant number: 25/20600-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: December 01, 2025
• End date: November 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Geosciences - Meteorology
• Principal Investigator: Luana Albertani Pampuch Bortolozo
• Grantee: Gabriella Candido Pollo
• Host Institution: Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia (ICT). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de São José dos Campos. São José dos Campos , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Heatwaves are among the most concerning extreme climate phenomena of the 21st century, with significant effects on public health, ecosystems, and urban resilience. Characterized by consecutive periods of elevated temperatures during both day and night, they intensify thermal discomfort and increase the risks of hospitalizations and mortality, especially in densely populated urban areas. Often associated with drought periods, they also impact sectors such as agriculture and water security. In recent decades, there has been a notable increase in the frequency, duration, and intensity of these events. Urbanization accelerates the formation of Urban Heat Islands, amplifying impacts primarily on vulnerable populations. To monitor these events, climate indices are widely used, supporting characterization, early warning issuance, and the development of public policies. Studies have shown that risks vary according to physical and social factors, highlighting inequalities in exposure and adaptive capacity. However, gaps remain in understanding the relationship between heatwaves and land use, as changes in land cover increase temperatures and reduce heat dissipation. Adaptation strategies include expanding urban tree cover, creating green spaces, and strengthening risk communication. The goal of this project is to investigate the interactions between heatwaves, land use and land cover, and social vulnerabilities in the Paraíba Valley, aiming to understand the factors that intensify these events and provide insights for public policies and adaptation strategies to promote more resilient and socially just cities. (AU)