Some effects of the urban structure on heat mortality
Abstract
During heat waves the death rate from heat-related ailments is often much higher in cities than in outlying environs. The higher death rate in cities appears to be a result of climate modification due to urbanization. Daytime urban-rural climatic differences are small. Nighttime urban-rural climatic differences, however, are often significant-air temperature is warmer within cities at night, long-wave radiant heat load is greater, wind speed is often lower, and inside air temperature of characteristic urban buildings is warmer. Noeturnal urban heat islands of 4-7° are shown to be associated with heat waves in two cities. During heat waves inhabitants of urban areas may experience sustained thermal stresses both day and night while inhabitants of the outlying environs often obtain some relief from thermal stresses during nocturnal hours. It is suggested that excess deaths occurring in urban areas during periods of extreme heat can be significantly reduced through appropriate urban land use.
- Publication:
-
Environmental Research
- Pub Date:
- 1972
- DOI:
- 10.1016/0013-9351(72)90023-0
- Bibcode:
- 1972ER......5...93C