Flames of change II: Urban action on extreme heat across Europe and Central Asia

The aim of the report is to examine how cities across Europe and Central Asia are addressing extreme urban heat, which has become the new normal and part of an uncertain future. It focuses on providing an account of on-the-ground, lived experiences that may be relevant for other local governments across the region. By drawing on questionnaire responses, case studies, and desk research. This report forms part of a series of knowledge products focused on managing (extreme) urban heat. 

The report concludes that urban heat and the urban heat island effect are pressing risks across Europe and Central Asia, with varied policy responses but shared challenges. Overcoming these barriers requires integrated, well-financed strategies, strong leadership, and political will. Embedding urban heat management within broader climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction frameworks—and ensuring coherence across policies and initiatives—is essential to building resilient urban environments for the future.