Integrating UHIE mitigating measures in the urban planning process

Despite advancements in microclimate modelling, limitations persist in empirical validation and accuracy of input parameters, which influence simulation fidelity. This study presents a case of assessing the urban heat island effect using ground-truthing-based modelling across heterogeneous urban typologies in Chennai.

Simulations under future climate scenarios with envelope upgrades reduced the Universal thermal climate index (UTCI) by up to 16°C in dense canyons during peak summer with limited nocturnal cooling due to residual heat and poor ventilation. The study underscores data-related constraints and contributes an applied framework that embeds microclimate insights into the urban planning process to support resilient, context-specific interventions.