Conclusion

  In this study, the variation of the urban heat island effect in response to changes in urban size was analyzed. In relatively small urban sizes, the urban heat island effect appears limited, but as the urban size increases, the effect becomes more pronounced. This is confirmed through various plots, as explained in the results section. The dome-shaped temperature pattern was observed in the vertical temperature contour plots, and the vertical movement of wind vectors was identified in the Temperature & wind vector plots. Additionally, convergence patterns in the lower layers were shown in the x-direction wind contour plots, and the upward flow forming a dome shape was observed in the z-direction wind contour plots. Lastly, through the temperature changes and their gradients, the time series plots of temperature at specific altitude by scenarios confirmed the above results.

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  This demonstrates that the urban heat island effect intensifies as the urban size gets larger. Therefore, as urbanization progresses, with population density increasing and urban spaces being developed, the impact of the urban heat island effect on us will intensify.

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  Furthermore, the potential effects of climate change on the urban heat island effect were investigated. Climate change not only causes temperature variations but also intensifies the urban heat island effect. This was confirmed through various plots, including vertical temperature profiles that intensified across different scenarios, and strengthened wind vectors, indicating increased movement and length. Intensified convergence was displayed in the x-direction wind contour, and additional upward flow above the dome was shown in the z-direction wind contour. Additionally, higher temperature curves for the SSP scenarios compared to the current were confirmed through the altitude-based graph of regionally averaged temperature.  

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  However, the intensification of the urban heat island effect impacts not only temperature increases but also energy consumption, air quality, and even human health and comfort. Deaths caused by the urban heat island effect are already an ongoing social issue, and one analysis suggests that the mortality rate due to the urban heat island effect can increase by up to 150% when the temperature reaches 36°C compared to 30°C. Therefore, numerous researchers are working to identify the causes of the urban heat island effect and are making various efforts to mitigate it. Appropriate environmental and urban policies based on these studies are essential for our future right to survival.