[A-AS05] Weather, Climate, and Environmental Science Studies using High-Performance Computing

[AAS05-11] Modelling and Analysis of heat stress over an Urban city in India

*Abhinav Utpal¹, PIYUSH SRIVASTAVA¹, Shiwam Singh¹, Srikrishnan Siva Subramanian¹ (1.Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee)

Keywords:Urban Heat Island, Urban Thermal Climate Index, Weather Research and Forecasting Model

Urban Heat Islands (UHIs) pose a significant challenge to densely populated cities of India, intensifying heat stress and impacting public health, energy consumption, and urban sustainability. This study aims to identify UHI hotspots in Mumbai (India) using satellite data of April 2024 and assess thermal stress through a systematic approach combining urban weather modelling and in-situ observations. Satellite-derived surface temperature data is analysed to detect spatial patterns of UHI hotspots across the region. To deepen the understanding of thermal dynamics, the Weather Research and Forecasting Model with Urban Canopy Model (WRF-UCM) is employed, utilizing Local Climate Zone (LCZ) global data to simulate the Urban Thermal Climate Index (UTCI). A nested domain structure with spatial resolutions of 3*3 km, 1*1 km and 333*333 m are used to capture regional and localized variations of urban weather parameters. Validation of the WRF-UCM simulated meteorological variables is carried out using data from 54 Automatic Weather Stations across Mumbai (India). A correlation analysis between satellite-derived UHI hotspots and validated model results provides comprehensive insights into heat stress distribution. The findings highlight critical zones experiencing increased heat stress, serving as a foundation for proposing urban planning interventions and policy recommendations. This study offers a replicable framework for addressing UHIs in other urban areas, contributing to sustainable development and enhancing climate resilience in the face of urbanization and climate change.