Urban Heat Island Calculator
Calculate urban heat island with our free science calculator. Uses standard scientific formulas with unit conversions and explanations.
Reviewed by Daniel Agrici, Founder & Lead Developer
Formula
UHI Intensity = T_urban - T_rural
Temperature difference adjusted for green cover (0.04 C/%), albedo ((a-0.15)x8), density (frac x 3.5 C).
Worked Examples
Example 1: Dense Downtown
Problem:Urban 38 C rural 29 C 10% green albedo 0.20 density 75%.
Solution:UHI=9.0 C Green=0.40 C Albedo=0.40 C Density=2.63 C
Result:UHI: 9.0 C (Extreme)
Example 2: Suburban Green
Problem:Urban 32 C rural 28 C 35% green albedo 0.35 density 30%.
Solution:UHI=4.0 C Green=1.40 C Albedo=1.60 C Density=1.05 C
Result:UHI: 4.0 C (Moderate)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do greenhouse gases trap heat?
Greenhouse gases (CO2, methane, N2O, fluorinated gases) absorb and re-emit infrared radiation, warming the atmosphere. Global Warming Potential (GWP) compares gases to CO2 over 100 years: methane has a GWP of 28, N2O is 265. Total forcing is measured in watts per square meter and currently exceeds 3 W/m^2.
Reviewed by Daniel Agrici, Founder & Lead Developer · Editorial policy