Climate change is happening in Multnomah County, threatening our access to clean air, clean water and healthy food.
The health impacts of hotter summers, wetter winters and extreme weather events create major public health challenges. Especially for our most vulnerable community members.
In the Portland region, communities of color and low-income communities already experience poorer health and disparities.
In 2021, our leaders declared racism a public health crisis, acknowledging the role systemic racism plays in creating unfair health disparities. This includes those related to climate hazards.
Climate change will make health disparities worse. Our response to climate change is an opportunity to correct this.
More on the health impacts of climate change»
Taking Action to Protect Public Health
Multnomah County Health Department is working with the community to prepare for these changes. Our work includes:
- Monitoring climate and health data
- Designing and implementing public health interventions
- Engaging with community partners on planning efforts
Resources & Reports
Heat
- Portland Metro Heat Watch Report, 2023 | DocumentHeat Watch Report Summary (592.22 KB)
- Heat vulnerability index | DocumentHeat Vulnerability Index Methods Report (2.09 MB)
- Portland Heat Map Study - CDC (PDF)
Regional Reports
Planning & Strategy
Contact Us
Healthy Homes & Communities Program
Jairaj Singh (he/they), Climate & Health Facilitator
971-438-7960
jairaj.singh@multco.us
Dan Trifone (he/him), Climate & Health Coordinator
971-710-9958
daniel.trifone@multco.us