Phoenix: World's Best Example Of A Heat Island

Phoenix's rapid development over the last four decades have made it the "prime example in the world" of a heat island.

1 minute read

June 12, 2002, 5:00 AM PDT

"Climate experts say the Valley ranks as the world's foremost "urban heat island," a place where the combination of sun, tile roofs, unshaded streets and lots and lots of asphalt keeps people sweating long into the night.It stays hotter longer in Phoenix than in most places. Since 1949, the average low temperature at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has risen more than 10 degrees. And over the past 40 years, the number of hours a day over 100 degrees has jumped dramatically."

Thanks to Chris Steins

Read the full story: Phoenix acting to cool 'urban heat island'

Tuesday, June 11, 2002 in The Arizona Republic

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