To examine extreme weather's impacts on urban environments, the ASU Wrigley Institute's Sustainable Cities Network convened municipal and nonprofit leaders for a conference on the subject. It featured a diverse panel of experts from multiple organizations - including the National Center for Atmospheric Research - who described the effects of extreme weather on human health, economies and urban infrastructure.

The event was part of the American Meteorological Society's annual conference, and was an opportunity exclusive to SCN members. Attendees included representatives from planning, public works, community development and other city departments, as well as local policymakers. The conference provided them with a holistic understanding of some of the issues Arizona's communities are facing, or will face - information that may aid in future decision-making.