Raleigh Residents Call for More Trees to Combat Urban Heat Islands

Environmentalists say increasing tree coverage could significantly improve living conditions during hot months.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 6:09pm

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As temperatures rise in Raleigh, some areas of the city are experiencing more intense heat due to urban heat islands - places with more pavement and fewer trees that trap heat. Environmentalists say planting more trees, especially in neighborhoods most affected by extreme heat, could provide natural cooling and significantly improve living conditions during the hotter months.

Why it matters

Urban heat islands can have significant impacts on quality of life, affecting daily routines, health, and energy usage. Addressing this issue through increased tree coverage is seen as an important step in making Raleigh's neighborhoods more livable and resilient to rising temperatures.

The details

Downtown Raleigh is considered one of the city's urban heat islands, but its green spaces like Nash Square provide a break from the rising temperatures. Trees help cool the surrounding air by providing shade and releasing moisture. Environmentalists say a 40% investment in tree coverage in the most affected areas could make a big difference.

  • As spring settles, warmer temperatures are making their return to Raleigh.

The players

Marinel Ulbaldo

An environmentalist with the North Carolina League of Conservation Voters.

Mark Perez

A Raleigh resident who finds relief from the heat in the city's green spaces.

Nick Ciraolo

A Raleigh resident who says the heat affects his daily routines.

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What they’re saying

“There's a lot of urban heat areas in the city, especially in downtown.”

— Marinel Ulbaldo, Environmentalist

“I think a lot of people are underestimating the power of trees.”

— Marinel Ulbaldo, Environmentalist

“Right now, it's not so bad. This feels good.”

— Mark Perez

“It determines exactly what I'm going to wear. Even how much I pack in my backpack because if I carry too much, I start sweating a lot.”

— Nick Ciraolo

What’s next

Efforts are underway to expand green spaces across Raleigh, especially in neighborhoods most affected by extreme heat.

The takeaway

Addressing urban heat islands through increased tree coverage is seen as an important step in making Raleigh's neighborhoods more livable and resilient to rising temperatures.