O conforto térmico nos microclimas urbanos no Centro de Caucaia, Ceará

Abstract

The urban environment represents the most intense form of modification of the Earth's surface, altering natural dynamics and the local radiation balance, creating a predominantly anthropogenic space. Among the affected elements, climate stands out as the most impacted due to changes in thermal exchanges, the hydrological cycle, and atmospheric composition. Disorderly urban expansion exacerbates these transformations, making urban climate a relevant socio-environmental issue. This study aimed to analyze thermo-hygrometric contrasts and the influence of different land use and cover patterns on microclimatic manifestations in the center of Caucaia-CE, as well as to evaluate thermal comfort indicators. The methodology was divided into three stages: (1) bibliographic and bibliometric review on the topic and study area; (2) cartographic investigation; and (3) fieldwork for the selection and analysis of locations. The research was based on Monteiro's (1976) urban climate studies (S.C.U.), focusing on the thermodynamic field and thermal comfort. The center of Caucaia was divided into quadrants with distinct land uses and covers, and four points were selected for thermo-hygrometric data collection using the HOBO MX2301A equipment. Measurements were taken between January 17 and 23, 2025, complemented by the application of thermal comfort indices: Heat Index (HI) and Temperature-Humidity Index (THI). The results revealed similar microclimates, with variations due to the spatial configurations of each quadrant. A morning thermal amplitude of up to 5.2°C was identified, with overheating starting at 8 a.m. and persisting until late afternoon. There were 170 cases of thermal discomfort recorded by HI and 183 by THI, concentrated during this period. Larger vegetation proved to be a crucial factor in mitigating local climatic conditions, highlighting the importance of urban planning integrated with the preservation of green areas to improve thermal comfort in urban environments.