Integration

Seamlessly connecting climate models and real-world data

Wind Speed Pedestrian Wind Comfort Thermal Comfort Heat Stress Cold Stress Microclimate Daylight Availability Sky View Factors Direct Sun Hours Solar Radiation
Heat Stress integration screenshot

Heat Stress

Heat Stress simulation maps the percentage of time when the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) exceeds 26°C—identifying areas where thermal conditions become physiologically stressful for most people. This critical analysis reveals vulnerability patterns throughout your site, quantifying both the intensity and duration of heat exposure in different zones, which becomes increasingly valuable as urban temperatures rise due to climate change and the urban heat island effect.

Starting from this heat stress data, designers can implement targeted mitigation strategies including strategic tree placement, high-albedo material selection, water feature integration, and careful programming of outdoor spaces. The simulation provides quantifiable evidence to support design decisions that prioritize thermal justice and public health, ensuring that outdoor environments remain accessible and comfortable during peak heat periods while reducing cooling energy demands for adjacent buildings. This analysis is particularly crucial for vulnerable populations, including children, older adults, and those with health conditions that make them more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.

The results of this simulation can be filtered by season or annually, and further refined by selecting the time of day in order to show the insights that are most critical to the project's success.

Heat Stress FAQ

What temperature threshold defines heat stress in the simulation?
The simulation flags areas where UTCI exceeds 26 degrees Celsius, the threshold at which thermal conditions become physiologically stressful for most people and outdoor activity becomes uncomfortable.
How can I mitigate heat stress hotspots identified by the simulation?
Common strategies include strategic tree placement for shade, high-albedo materials to reduce surface heating, water features for evaporative cooling, and programming outdoor spaces away from peak exposure zones.
Why is heat stress analysis important for urban design?
Rising urban temperatures and the heat island effect increase health risks, especially for vulnerable populations. Heat stress simulation provides evidence to design safer, cooler public spaces in warming climates.
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