Metro Vancouver’s urban expansion, reduced greenspaces, and prevalence of dry, low-reflectivity surfaces may significantly intensify SUHI. This study analyzes key factors influencing SUHI magnitude, identifies hotspots and cool spots, and highlights target areas needing mitigation strategies.
Data Collection: Landsat imagery (thermal bands, SWIR, NDVI), land use data, and spatial datasets were obtained to assess temperature variations, vegetation, soil moisture, and surface materials.
Analysis: ArcGIS Pro and Google Earth were used to map SUHI, overlay factors, and identify hotspots. Buffer analysis assessed proximity to green spaces and water bodies.
Findings show specific locations within urban areas in which low vegetation, dry surfaces (high SWIR), and built-up areas significantly contribute to SUHI, while dense vegetation and water bodies reduce temperatures. Target areas are impacted mainly by industrial centers (warehouses, shopping centers, etc.), parking lots, and education facilities. Identified target areas require urban planning interventions, such as green infrastructure, reflective surfaces, and sustainable land use policies. Addressing these factors will reduce heat stress, improve public health, and enhance climate resilience. Poster submission was sponsored by Dr. Kathy Runnalls, (Humanities and Social Sciences Department) and was presented at the New Westminster campus on April 10, 2025, for Student Research Days 2025.
