Research Article Open Access

Intra Urban Air Temperature Distributions in Historic Urban Center

Elmira Jamei1 and Dilshan Remaz Ossen1
  • 1 University Technology Malaysia, Malaysia

Abstract

The study investigates the urban heat island effect in Malaysian historic town Malacca through seven mobile traverses, as carried out on 10 December 2011. It aims to identify the intra-urban air temperature differences between heritage core zone, new development area and outskirts of the city. Air temperature variations were also analyzed across three different zones; namely the outskirts, the heritage site and the city center district. Heat index values were then calculated based on air temperature and relative humidity to gauge the level of outdoor thermal comfort within the study area. Based on the indications, one may conclude that the heritage place’s core zone is currently threatened by escalating temperatures and that its current temperature range falls within the "caution" and "extreme caution" categories. Furthermore, no significant difference was observed between the peak temperatures of the old city quarters and newer areas; despite the disparities in their urban forms. Therefore, it is hoped that the study, with its implications, will be able to influence future environmental consideration in heritage city of Melaka.

American Journal of Environmental Sciences
Volume 8 No. 5, 2012, 503-509

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3844/ajessp.2012.503.509

Submitted On: 23 June 2012 Published On: 17 August 2012

How to Cite: Jamei, E. & Ossen, D. R. (2012). Intra Urban Air Temperature Distributions in Historic Urban Center. American Journal of Environmental Sciences, 8(5), 503-509. https://doi.org/10.3844/ajessp.2012.503.509

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Keywords

  • Heritage Area
  • Intra-urban Temperature
  • Heat Index
  • Tropical Climate
  • Mobile Traverse