Assessment of Urban Heat Structure in Morocco

The African continent is undergoing rapid urbanization, marked by the unprecedented expansion rates of its cities. In Morocco, economic growth is driving infrastructure development, paving the way for escalating urbanization, while simultaneously presenting challenges for sustainability and the wellbeing of its population. This study investigates urban heat structure, specifically the urban heat island (UHI), across three Moroccan cities—Nador, Fes, and Ouarzazate. Using modeled land surface temperatures obtained from the simple biosphere model (SiB2), this research analyzes how urban heat structure varies with the cities’ climate zones and morphological characteristics. The findings should guide urban planners and decision makers to make informed policies that address urban climate concerns.