Many places, including Fairfax County, are seeing hotter weather and more extreme heat than in previous years. 

When heat strikes, neighborhoods with less greenery and more buildings and pavement can get much hotter than surrounding areas. These hot spots, known as Urban Heat Islands, can have warmer temperatures during the day and at night, making it difficult for people to keep cool in these areas.

The county is working to reduce urban heat islands and help keep residents safe in the heat in several ways.