Field Observation and Estimation of Urban Air Telperature in Surface Boundary Layer Using Vegetation Model for Regional Surface Energy Balance

Abstract

Air temperature of the surface boundary layer in urban and its suburb areas are determined using a vegetation model by TM for regional surface energy balance. The model is based on the assumption that evapotranspiration in urban areas is due primarily to vegetation and there is Monin-Obukhov similarity in urban areas. In this model. evapotranspiration is controlled by the evapotranspiration area index. i.e., effective leaf area index, vapor pressure deficit at leaf temperature and stomatal opening. Moderation effect due to vegetation on air temperature in urban areas can be determined from the relation between NDVI and air temperature indicated by the vegetation model. The moderation effect is 1°C for an increase of 0.1 in NDVI.