Mikroklimata

Mikroklimata, or microclimates, are localized atmospheric conditions that differ from the surrounding climate. They arise where surface properties, topography, moisture, wind, and solar radiation interact at small scales, from a few meters to several hectares, and may persist for hours, days, or seasons.

The main drivers include terrain and orientation (aspect, slope), land cover and surface materials (soil, vegetation, built surfaces), water bodies, and urban infrastructure. Vegetation can create cooler, moister pockets through shading and evapotranspiration; in contrast, exposed, heat-absorbing surfaces such as concrete can raise temperatures and influence wind patterns, depending on geometry and ventilation. Urban microclimates often feature shaded parks and cool pockets near water, as well as hot, wind-sheltered canyons.

Common variables measured are air temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction, solar radiation, and surface or ground temperature, along with soil moisture. Accurate characterization relies on microclimate networks, portable sensors, and spatial analysis using GIS and remote sensing, sometimes coupled with numerical models to interpolate or simulate conditions at unmonitored sites.

Applications and implications include agricultural and horticultural planning (frost pockets, crop selection, irrigation timing), landscape design and forestry, and urban planning (green spaces, shade, reflective surfaces, water features) to improve comfort and reduce energy demand. Understanding microclimates is also important for risk assessment related to frost, heat waves, and local weather variability.