Assessment of diurnal urban heat island (UHI) intensity in microclimatic urban environment using Local climate zone classification approach -AGU23 Fall Meeting
Abstract
Urban Heat Island (UHI) effects have significant implications on the microclimatic conditions in urban environments, impacting human health, energy consumption, and overall urban planning. This study aims to assess the diurnal intensity of UHI in a microclimatic urban setting by adopting the Local Climate Zone (LCZ) classification approach. We utilized a combination of remote sensing data, ground-based measurements, and LCZ classification to analyze the temporal and spatial variation of UHI intensity throughout the day and night. The study area, Dehradun city, a densely populated urban area situated in the valley region of Himalayas, exhibited diverse LCZs, including compact low-rise, dense trees, and open spaces. Using satellite-derived land surface temperature (LST) data and hourly in-situ measurements, we quantified the UHI effect during daytime and nighttime hours. The results revealed distinct diurnal patterns of UHI intensity among different LCZs, with peak intensity occurring during late afternoon and early evening hours. Furthermore, we investigated the impact of vegetation and built-up characteristics on UHI variation, highlighting the cooling effect of green spaces and the amplifying effect of impervious surfaces. This research contributes to a better understanding of microclimatic urban environments and their relation to UHI dynamics, providing valuable insights for urban planners, policymakers, and researchers aiming to mitigate heat-related issues and promote sustainable urban development. The findings underscore the importance of considering local land-use patterns and urban morphology when assessing and managing UHI effects.