Regions with high Urban Heat Island (UHI) effects recently showed elevated levels of pollutants like carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), and aerosols.
About the Urban Heat Island (UHI):
- It’s a natural phenomenon where urban areas are significantly warmer than surrounding rural regions.
- UHI can increase temperatures by 5°C to 10°C, intensifying heat waves.
Causes of UHI:
- Urban Material Properties: Dark urban materials like asphalt, steel, and brick absorb heat and prevent water infiltration, leading to increased heating.
- Other Factors:
- Reduced Natural Landscapes
- Building dimensions and spacing that trap heat within cities
- Anthropogenic activities (e.g., air-conditioning units)
- Climate change
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