Indoor ‘feels-like’ heat soars to 52 degrees in Hong Kong subdivided homes: study

52.21 Degrees Celsius

The alarming figure of 52.21 degrees Celsius represents the highest 'apparent temperature' recorded inside a subdivided flat during a recent study in Hong Kong. This metric, which accounts for humidity, reflects the actual heat experienced by residents, far exceeding comfortable or safe levels. Such extreme indoor conditions are not merely uncomfortable; they pose serious health threats, particularly to those with pre-existing conditions or limited means to mitigate the heat.

The average daytime apparent temperature across the surveyed homes was 35.58 degrees Celsius, with night-time temperatures also consistently above the Hong Kong Observatory's 'hot night' threshold of 28 degrees. These sustained high temperatures, day and night, prevent residents from finding relief, turning their homes into oppressive environments. The lack of respite exacerbates the physical and psychological toll of the heat, making daily life a constant struggle against the elements within their own living spaces.

Homemakers

Homemakers emerged as the most significantly affected demographic in the study, comprising 48 percent of the surveyed households. A staggering 83 percent of these individuals reported frequently or always feeling fatigued, indicating a pervasive impact on their energy levels and ability to perform daily tasks. This group, often responsible for household chores and childcare, bears a disproportionate burden from the extreme heat.

Furthermore, approximately 80 percent of homemakers experienced at least one heat-related physical symptom, including intense thirst, dizziness, and headaches. These symptoms are direct indicators of heat stress and potential heat exhaustion, highlighting a public health crisis unfolding within these homes. The study also noted that 69 percent of homemakers felt the heat negatively affected their mood, pointing to the psychological strain and reduced quality of life caused by their living conditions.

CarbonCare InnoLab

CarbonCare InnoLab, in collaboration with the Concerning Subdivided Units Alliance, spearheaded this crucial research, surveying 86 households across nine districts. Their methodology focused on 'apparent temperatures' to capture the lived experience of heat, providing a more accurate picture than simple air temperature readings. The study's findings provide concrete data to advocate for better housing policies and immediate interventions to protect vulnerable residents.

The organizations' work underscores the urgent need for policy changes to address Hong Kong's housing crisis, particularly for those living in inadequate accommodations. By quantifying the severe impact of heat on these communities, CarbonCare InnoLab and its partners aim to galvanize government action and public awareness. Their research serves as a vital tool for informing discussions around climate resilience, social equity, and the fundamental right to safe and healthy living conditions in one of the world's most densely populated cities.