Sri Lanka's Heatwave: A Topological Perspective
Sri Lanka experiences severe overheating risk that affects the health of its population. The risk of overheating is the outcome of inappropriate urban and building design and can be further exacerbated by heatwaves.
The Current Situation
Sri Lanka experiences severe overheating risk that affects the health of its population. The risk of overheating is the outcome of inappropriate urban and building design and can be further exacerbated by heatwaves. Some South-Asian countries have implemented national management action plans for heatwaves. However, such resilient warning systems for heatwaves do not exist in Sri Lanka .
The Challenges
It was found that planners and designers are silent on the excess radiation problem in the city. The findings highlight the issues associated with inadequate climate-sensitive planning regime; lack of recognition of the role of urban designers in the development process; the need to change perceptions of built environment professionals; the need to sensitise the public about overheating and the negative consequences of the use of air conditioners; and the vital role of political influence in addressing these issues .