The Characteristics of Urban Heat Island in Bangkok, Thailand

Abstract

The study focuses on the characteristics of urban heat island (UHI) in Bangkok, Thailand. Hourly air temperature data from four weather stations -one in rural site and three in urban sites for the last five year are used to study the characteristics and intensities of UHI in Bangkok area. The results indicate the presence of urban heat island in Bangkok and it is increasing in terms of intensity. The study reveals the maximum intensity of around 6-7 °C is detected during dry season. The mean annual air temperature in Bangkok city is higher by 0.8 °C than outside the city. The weather conditions (wind, cloud, and precipitation), and different land cover types are the major factors governing the near surface urban heat island.