ASSESSING THE EFFECTS OF IMPERVIOUS SURFACES ON URBAN HEAT ISLAND PHENOMENON IN OWERRI WEST, NIGERIA

ABSTRACTExploring the urban heat islands (UHIs) in Owerri West, Nigeria, this study delves into the influence of impermeable surfaces like concrete and asphalt on local temperature dynamics. Temperature and wind speed data were gathered over five days at specific locations, including vegetables, raw soil, cement, and asphalt surfaces, at various times. The findings indicate a significant temperature increase on impervious surfaces, particularly noticeable during the late afternoon compared to other surface types. Utilizing Principal Component Analysis (PCA), this study explores the correlation between temperature and wind speed, uncovering important patterns and variations in the data. This research underscores the critical role of sustainable urban planning by advocating for the integration of green spaces and high-albedo materials to effectively counter the adverse effects of urban heat islands, aligning with broader environmental sustainability objectives. These insights contribute to a broader understanding of the UHI in developing countries and inform urban planning and environmental management practices.Keywords: Urban heat island, impermeable surface, land surface temperature, sustainable urban planning, albedo, surface reflection.