Debrecen4U March 20, 2026

Heat Stress and Risk Map Developed to Support Climate Adaptation in Debrecen

In recent years, heatwaves have become increasingly frequent, posing a serious challenge particularly in densely built urban areas such as Debrecen. As a result, significant temperature increases are experienced within cities during the daytime, while night-time cooling is insufficient to improve the comfort of residents. The urban heat island effect can be mitigated by increasing the extent of green spaces and reducing the proportion of paved surfaces.

Based in Debrecen, Envirosense Hungary Kft. has developed an innovative method within the framework of the PilotInnCities Interreg Danube Project (Pilot-based innovation ecosystems for smart cities), using satellite imagery to classify urban areas according to their exposure to heat stress. Through this, zones, spaces and buildings with high exposure to heat risk have been identified, requiring increased attention in the near future.

Within the project, experts examined municipally affiliated institutions, as well as facilities serving populations sensitive to heat stress (such as schools, healthcare institutions and social care facilities), and also analysed population indicators relevant to heat vulnerability.

The project was implemented in close cooperation with EDC Debrecen Nonprofit Kft., involving staff from the Mayor’s Office and relevant municipally owned companies. This collaboration made it possible to identify real local needs and challenges, forming the basis for the creation of a heat stress map that supports urban decision-making. The development marks the first step in a longer-term process, as the methodology developed will in future allow for the assessment of the impact of completed investments on heat stress, and provide baseline information for both upcoming and ongoing climate adaptation projects in the city.

The closing event of the Debrecen pilot project was held on 12 March, attended by HROD Community Economic and Social Development Centre and the Neumann Technology Platform as Hungarian consortium partners of the PilotInnCities Interreg Danube Project.

Source: dehir.hu | Photo credit: Debrecen városa (Facebook)