Spatio-Temporal Surface Urban Heat Island Effect Analysis Over Tiruchirappalli City, India, Using GIS Techniques

This study investigates the effects of urbanization on the climatic conditions of a region and the occurrence of urban heat islands (UHIs). The study area was analysed for variations in UHI effects during the summer and winter seasons over a 20-year period, and hot spots (HS) and cold spots (CS) were identified. Results indicate that the Land Surface Temperature (LST) is higher during summer nights than winter nights, and rural areas are cooler than urban areas. The study also found significant differences in LST within the study area, with the Cauvery delta experiencing a dip and the BHEL industrial area showing a significant spike in temperature. HS and CS maps were developed for Tiruchirappalli. The findings of this study can provide valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners to mitigate the UHI effects and improve the climate resilience of urban areas.