The aim of this research is to investigate the UHI using a multi-scale approach through the collection and analysis of climatic data and the interaction of atmospheric phenomena occurring at different spatial and temporal scales inside and above the urban environment. For the scope of the analysis, data from the field measurement campaign of the TOPEUM project (Towards Optimization of Urban Planning and Architectural Parameters for Energy use Minimization in Mediterranean Cities) conducted in July 2010 are used (M. K.-A. Neophytou et al., 2011). Through the field measurement campaign, data of air temperature, relative humidity, surface temperatures, wind speed, and wind direction were collected in various spatial and temporal scales at a high heat stress period of the year when the intensity of UHI is expected to be stronger.
Based on the analysis of the measurements, a series of downslope winds with moderate speed (2 – 5 m/s) were captured at the mountainous stations, occurring late evening – night hours. The winds presented characteristics of offshore katabatic winds originating from the mountain of Troodos, which seemed to act as a drainage and cooling system and possibly reduce the intensity of UHI. Furthermore, an on-shore evening breeze was recorded in the early afternoon hours, increasing relative humidity levels by approximately 10% and reducing the average daily temperature to 5 °C. In addition, the analysis showed that the orientation and exposure to direct solar radiation of each building wall were the main reasons for the increase in surface temperatures.
The Project EXCELLENCE//1216/0294 is co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund and the Republic of Cyprus through the Research and Innovation Foundation
