Lakewood Climate Hazard and Social Vulnerability Study

Vulnerability varies

The Climate Hazard and Social Vulnerability Study combined a spatial equity index with data on local infrastructure climate projections to understand which demographic groups would struggle most to recover from climate hazards and where to find them. The resulting analysis is a resource for the City to plan interventions that support those at greatest risk.

Location matters

The study includes spatial assessments of potential climate hazards created with ScenaAdaptation. The projections highlighted which neighbourhoods will have the warmest temperatures during heat waves, where floods will hit infrastructure the hardest, and areas most exposed to wildfire—as well as how these risks shift between 2023 and 2050. The insights enable strategic planning down to the neighborhood level.

Community insight is key

Residents, city staff, local organizations, businesses, and experts weighed in through two working groups, a community survey, and focus groups. Their input provided insight on how people, infrastructure, and the economy are affected by climate hazards, highlighting challenges and strengths that aren’t captured by climate projections. The community also shaped the study by brainstorming and critiquing potential actions.