On Urban Heat Island Effect?

"Urban heat islands" occur when cities replace natural land cover with dense concentrations of pavement, buildings, and other surfaces that absorb and retain heat. This effect increases energy costs (e.g., for air conditioning), air pollution levels, and heat-related illness and mortality.

What are the effects of urban heat island effect?

Heat islands contribute to higher daytime temperatures, reduced nighttime cooling, and higher air-pollution levels. These, in turn, contribute to heat-related deaths and heat-related illnesses such as general discomfort, respiratory difficulties, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and non-fatal heat stroke.

How does urban heat island effect climate change?

With the heat island effect compounding the warming from climate change, cities will likely require more electricity for air conditioning than surrounding areas. ... For example, based on a 6.3 to 9°F temperature increase, climate change could increase the need for additional generating capacity by roughly 10-20% by 2050.