New Appointment in L.A. to Tackle Extreme Heat

A recent announcement confirmed that Daniela Simunovic has been appointed as the new chief heat officer for Los Angeles. She assumed the role on May 31, replacing Marta Segura in a quiet transition. Previously, Simunovic served as Mayor Karen Bass’s senior director of climate and sustainability for three years.

The chief heat officer is tasked with managing the city’s strategies to combat extreme heat, a pressing climate issue in California. This role also includes leading the Climate Emergency Mobilization Office, which moved from Public Works to the Emergency Management Department after a budget debate. This notable office was established in 2021 to spearhead efforts to lower greenhouse gas emissions and safeguard residents against climate-related hazards. Daniela Simunovic’s predecessor, Segura, became the first to head this office when appointed by then-Mayor Eric Garcetti.

As one of the three cities taking this approach, after Phoenix and Miami, Los Angeles prioritized the dual position of chief heat officer and office director. Data shows that on scorching days, approximately 1% of emergency department visits in L.A. County are due to heat-related ailments. Notably, in 2025, heat was responsible for 10 fatalities in the county.

Financial records revealed Segura’s earnings in 2025 to be approximately $222,000, while Simunovic received about $161,000 last year in her capacity as senior director. Before joining L.A. governance, Simunovic contributed as a senior advisor to the California Air Resources Board, focusing on air pollution protection. Her appointment was first highlighted by Substack Climate Colored Goggles and later confirmed in a statement by Mayor Bass’s office. The statement expressed enthusiasm for Simunovic’s leadership amidst the current Extreme Heat Warning in L.A.

The Climate Emergency Mobilization Office, in collaboration with community partners, is developing a Heat Action and Resilience Plan, targeted for completion by early 2027. Despite previous proposals to eliminate the office, Mayor Bass has consistently advanced several climate goals, such as achieving 100% renewable energy by 2035. The Climate Action Plan unveiled in April includes extensive initiatives like doubling solar power locally, reducing fossil fuel reliance, increasing urban greenery for shade, setting up cooling centers for high-temperature days, and meticulous development of the Heat Action and Resilience Plan.