Identifying Extreme Heat and Moisture Zones for Vulnerable Populations in Athens: A Geospatial Analysis

Abstract

Urban environments are increasingly affected by extreme weather conditions, posing significant risks to vulnerable populations, such as the homeless. This research applies geospatial analysis to identify areas of extreme heat and moisture within the Athens metropolitan area in Greece. The analysis utilizes satellite-derived land surface temperature (LST), vegetation density index (NDVI), build-up density index (NDBI), Topographic Wetness Index (TWI), and other terrain-based factors to develop high-fidelity risk zones. These zones are critical for informing targeted interventions and policy measures aimed at protecting vulnerable groups from heat waves and extreme moisture. This research integrates a geospatial analysis approach for mapping and evaluating heat and moisture vulnerability zones. This approach integrates remote sensing data, GIS-based modeling, and terrain analysis. The findings can provide local authorities and social services with the necessary information to design adaptive strategies for climate change resilience.