URBAN HEAT ISLAND DYNAMICS IN IKEJA, LAGOS: A REMOTE SENSING ANALYSIS

Abstract

Urban areas, exemplified by Ikeja, Lagos, are confronted with the escalating challenges posed by the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect, exacerbated by rapid urbanization and climate change. This study examines the intricate dynamics of land use changes, land surface temperatures (LST), and air temperatures in Ikeja from 2002 to 2023 by employing advanced geospatial analysis techniques and remote sensing data. The research elucidates the shifting patterns of the UHI effect. The findings reveal a significant impact of urban growth on local temperatures, accompanied by considerable Land surface temperature fluctuations with a range of 11.031°C. Spatial analyses reveal pronounced UHI areas in high-density residential, commercial, and industrial zones, which have grown in land areas covering 81.69% of the study area. The coefficient of determination (R2) was found to be 92.2% between LST and air temperature, establishing the importance of land surface conditions in shaping the local climate. Considering these insights, the study advocates for climate-conscious urban planning paradigms, and initiatives. Community engagements and awareness campaigns emerge as linchpins for fostering a sense of responsibility, while research partnerships and policy advocacy reinforce Ikeja’s position in climate research and sustainable urban development. This study transcends a mere endpoint, positioning itself as a waypoint in the ongoing journey toward sustainable, resilient urban futures. As Ikeja evolves, the nuanced dance of its UHI effect beckons continuous exploration and informed decision-making to sculpt a future where urbanization and environmental equilibrium coalesce harmoniously.