The Silent Hazard Threatening Big Cities

Rising underground temperatures, known as "underground climate change," caused by heat generated from subways and buildings, are posing a silent hazard to major cities like Chicago, New York, and London. The phenomenon, unrelated to atmospheric climate change, can lead to deformation and potential damage to city structures. Data shows that underground heat is spreading and increasing faster than surface temperatures, with temperatures under human-made structures being as much as 77 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than undisturbed underground locations. Mitigation solutions include thermal insulation and capturing excess heat for geothermal energy. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg acknowledges the importance of addressing this issue as part of the administration's climate agenda.