On July 11, 2023, NOAA announced that it will utilize $5 million in IRA funding to establish two virtual research centers that will provide support to communities and local governments on improving resilience to extreme heat. NOAA will select entities to establish the two centers through a competitive call for proposals. NOAA will establish a Center for Community Climate and Health Observations, Monitoring, and Evaluation to provide technical and other assistance for projects promoting equitable heat resilience. The agency will also establish a Center for Climate and Health Assessments, Policy, and Practice to advance the development of new approaches that benefit heat-affected communities.
The centers aim to help “provide technical assistance and actionable, locally-tailored information that historically marginalized and underserved communities can use to better prepare for extreme heat.” Additionally, a White House working group on extreme heat is set to develop a national heat strategy, which officials say will be centered on equity and environmental justice.
Letters of intent for entities applying for the funding opportunities are due on Monday, August 14, 2023 at 5 p.m. ET. Full applications are due on Monday, October 16, 2023 at 5 p.m. ET.