MICROCLIMATES WITHIN AN URBAN AREA∗

Abstract

ABSTRACT The geographic delineation of various microclimates within an urban area is determined by the transfers of energy, mass, and momentum at the city surface. This approach requires a method for quantifying urban surface characteristics. The results of specifying the surface textures of Sacramento, California, and the determination of the attendant microclimates through energy transfer modeling were consistent with spot measurements made within the city. The approach could aid greatly in urban microclimate studies and in city design for the determination of ideal microclimate configurations.