hazy sky in Portland, Oregon

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

Heat vulnerability index»

Heat Vulnerability Index Methods Report (2.09 MB)

Climate Events

Final Report: Health Impacts from Excessive Heat Events in Multnomah County Oregon , 2021 (1.89 MB)
June 2021 Heat Event Preliminary Findings and Action Steps (4.31 MB)

Regional Reports

Regional Climate and Health Monitoring Report: 2012-2022 (1.02 MB)
Informe regional de control del clima y la salud 2012-22 (1.4 MB)

Regional Climate and Health Monitoring Report: 2010-2020 (1.56 MB)
Informe Regional de Monitoreo de Clima y Salud: 2010-2020 (1.34 MB)

Planning & Strategy

Climate Action Plan Progress Report 2017 (2.08 MB)
2015 Climate Action Plan (Full Document) (18.11 MB)
Climate Change Preparation Strategy (2.43 MB)
Climate Change Preparation Strategy: Risks and Vulnerabilities Assessment (1.42 MB)
Climate Change Preparation Plan: 2013 (23.58 MB)


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