A framework for heat risk action planning for tourism

Climate change is increasing heat risk for tourists worldwide. This paper delineates factors that make tourists particularly vulnerable to extreme heat and argues for their recognition as an at-risk group in heat-prone destinations. A review of community Heat Action Plans reveals a lack of engagement with the tourism sector. To address this gap, a framework for integrating tourism considerations into Heat Action Plans is presented, including a proposed new system of heat emergency alerts for non-acclimatized tourists. • Factors that influence tourist vulnerability to extreme heat are delineated. • Non-acclimatized tourists are an at-risk group in extreme heat-prone destinations. • Existing community Heat Action Plans rarely incorporate the tourism sector. • A framework to integrate tourism into Heat Action Plans is presented. • A novel system of Heat Emergency Alerts for Tourism (H.E.A.T.) is introduced.