Comment on “High-Resolution, Multilayer Modeling of Singapore's Urban Climate Incorporating Local Climate Zones” by Mughal et al. (2019)

Abstract

Weather forecasting models coupled with canopy layer schemes are frequently used to assess the urban heat island (UHI) phenomenon through sensitivity analysis. These models are valuable tools if they are properly tested against field observations. Mughal et al. (2019) (https://doi.org/10.1029/2018JD029796) followed this approach to investigate Singapore's UHI effect within the urban canopy layer. But a lack of field observations for evaluating the model's performance led to simplistic assumptions and wrong interpretations. The major flaws triggered by both circumstances are exposed with the aim that future research does not repeat the same mistakes and can provide the scientific basis to formulate effective mitigation measures.