Spatio-temporal dynamics of air temperature and intra-urban thermal disparities in Kasba Tadla (Morocco) during 2023: Implications for local climate adaptation

Abstract

Global warming is accelerating significantly, as evidenced by an increase in the frequency, intensity and duration of heat waves. The cities are vulnerable to these extreme thermal phenomena, Due to their morphology and physical characteristics. In Morocco, and particularly in small towns, knowledge of local microclimates remains limited, where the lack of local data hinders understanding of intra-urban temperature variability. However, studying the urban climate is essential for anticipating health risks and improving thermal comfort, with a view to adapting to climate change. This study focuses on the town of Kasba Tadla, located in the Beni Mellal-Khenifra region. Where a network of eight air temperature sensors was installed to record hourly measurements during 2023. The data collected made it possible to analyse air temperature at different time scales (monthly, seasonal, daily) and to examine day/night thermal contrasts. A spatial analysis was also carried out to compare temperature variations between different neighbourhoods of the city. The results show that during the summer of 2023, maximum temperatures reached 46°C with an intra-urban temperature difference of 4°C observed between the different areas of the city. Night-time temperatures show that some of these areas remain warmer (22–26°C), revealing the persistence of urban heat islands at night, while areas with more vegetation remain cooler (20–21 °C). This study is the first urban microclimatic analysis conducted in Kasba Tadla, so that, it will be constitute an important database to help policymakers and urban planners implement strategies to reduce urban heat islands.