Lämpösaarekeilmiö

Lämpösaarekeilmiö, often translated as urban heat island effect, refers to the phenomenon where metropolitan areas are significantly warmer than their surrounding rural areas. This temperature difference is most pronounced at night, but can also be observed during the day. The primary drivers of this effect are the modification of the land surface and the release of heat by human activities.

Urban surfaces, such as asphalt and concrete, absorb and retain more solar radiation than the vegetation and soil found in rural landscapes. This stored heat is then gradually released into the surrounding air, contributing to higher temperatures. Additionally, buildings and other structures can trap heat and reduce wind speed, further exacerbating the warming effect. Human activities within cities also generate heat. This includes heat released from vehicles, industrial processes, and heating and cooling systems in buildings.

The consequences of the urban heat island effect can be varied. Increased energy consumption for cooling in warmer months is a significant economic and environmental concern. For human health, higher temperatures can lead to heat stress and exacerbate existing respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, particularly during heatwaves. Changes in local weather patterns, such as altered precipitation and fog formation, can also be influenced by this phenomenon. Mitigation strategies often involve increasing green spaces, using reflective building materials, and implementing effective urban planning to improve airflow.