Presence of buildings and their influence on patterns of urban microclimates: A case study in the city of Juiz de Fora, Southeast Brazil

Abstract

Several mechanisms and processes are responsible for the urban climate. A city’s growth intensity and speed along with the distinct and complex materials of which it is composed, lead to multiple urban microclimates. The main objective of this research was analysing the influence of one of these factors – the buildings – in an area near the central zone of Juiz the Fora, a city in Brazil, and the patterns of microclimates associated with them. The presence of buildings might be creating thermal and barometrical distinct fields, influencing the population’s quality of life. Five sampling points spatially distributed in previously designated locations were chosen, considering those that presented different characteristics in the building standards. Meteorological stations (Oregon model WNR928NX) collected air temperature, wind and air humidity data at each sampling point, during the days 12, 13, 14, 19 and 20 of August of 2014, out for a period of 10 hours in a row (from 8am to 6pm each day). Maps were made for the purpose of observing the spatial distribution patterns of the buildings, comparing the geographical location of the Points, number of pavements and 3D Shadows. The buildings had a significant effect on patterns of microclimates. A wind corridor was also found at point 2, as a result of the dimensions and disposition of the access roads and their buildings. There is a need to rethink planning laws related to the urban land use and cover of the city of Juiz de Fora, taking into consideration the effect of buildings as part of the planning process.