Thermal modifications in cities. An update on the heat island in Barcelona

Abstract

This article try to present the results on the first empirical study on the heat island in Barcelona city. After the analysis of the international bibliography and its evolution, the authors present their methodology, based on the field research, weekly made from 1985 to 1987, in five transects throughout the metropolitan area, previously established. First, the main morphological, environmental and functional trends of the five transects are studied. After, the contrast with the conventional meteorological data, the atmospheric conditions and the satellite images information, the presence of the heat island in Barcelona is demonstrated, with a 6,9 ºC on intensity, and irregular form and location.