Microclimate Vancouver

Question 1

Vancouver’s Physical location:

Answer 1

Open to Sea.

Backed by Mountains and Valleys.

Question 2

Temp ranges: Lowest

Answer 2

Sea bay had lowest temp.
Surrounding river had second lowest.
Well vegetated Stanley Park saw low temps.

Question 3

Temp ranges: Highest

Answer 3

Airport and CBD highest temp.

Question 4

Heat Island at CBD causes:

Answer 4

Black concrete and Tarmac have low Albedos, that rapidly absorb solar radiation and re-radiate at night.
Skyscrapers give streets a canyon effect, as less area for light toe space to sky.
Central Heating warms atmosphere.
Pollution reduces loss of re-radiated energy at night.
Higher rates of evapotranspiration lower the heat.

Question 5

CBD facts:

Answer 5

Acts as a ‘Heat Island’.
Warmest area at 27C.
Steep rise in temp from city edge inwards.

Question 6

Humidity:

Answer 6

Rises at Harbour.
Greater in Stanley Park (Rural Area).
Humidity is higher in Park due to Transpiration

Question 7

Wind:

Answer 7

Skyscrapers cause turbulence and vertical uplift.
Winds less strong in city centre due to obstructions from buildings.
Streets can cause canyons like gusts.