Durban, South Africa faces major heat island effect, impacting urban climate.
Land surface temperatures in Durban, South Africa were estimated using satellite data and GIS techniques. The study found that the city center has a significant heat island effect, with higher temperatures compared to surrounding areas. This urban heat island phenomenon is caused by human activities, leading to increased thermal radiation from densely populated and paved areas. The research highlights the impact of urban growth on local climates and the importance of monitoring land surface temperatures for understanding urban heat islands.