Santiago de Chile has been under the microscope for a long time. Scientists have been curious about how the city's heat changes over time and space. This is not just about the city itself. It is also about how the city's heat interacts with larger weather patterns. This is the first time such a detailed study has been done in Santiago.

The study looked at temperatures from 1960 to 2021. It focused on the city with a fine detail of 0. 05 degrees. The findings were interesting. During the day, the urban heat island effect was not clear. Temperatures were mostly the same in the city and the nearby countryside. However, at night, a different picture emerged. The central and northern parts of the city were noticeably warmer. This is what scientists call the urban heat island effect.

The study also found that different weather patterns and seasons affected the urban heat island. The northwest part of the city had the biggest temperature differences. This is important because it shows how the city's heat is not uniform. It varies depending on the time of day, the season, and the weather.

The study also found that the city's maximum and minimum temperatures have been increasing. The maximum temperatures have been rising by up to 0. 21 degrees Celsius per decade. The minimum temperatures have been rising by up to 0. 19 degrees Celsius per decade. This is a clear sign of climate change. It shows how the city's heat is not just a local issue. It is part of a larger global trend.

So, what does this all mean? It means that understanding the urban heat island effect is crucial. It is not just about making the city more comfortable. It is about understanding how the city fits into the larger picture of climate change. It is about finding ways to make the city more resilient. It is about finding ways to adapt to a changing climate. It is about finding ways to mitigate the effects of climate change. It is about finding ways to create a more sustainable future for the city and its residents.

URBAN HEAT ISLANDS

Santiago's Nighttime Heat: A City's Warm Embrace

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