THE COOL AND MOISTURE ISLAND EFFECT IN A MEDIUM-SIZED TROPICAL CITY: THE CASE OF A SMALL URBAN PARK IN UBERABA (MG)

Abstract

Urban green spaces are widely recognized for their capacity to regulate thermo-hygrometric conditions, extending their influence beyond their physical boundaries into the surrounding urban fabric. However, empirical data on the effectiveness of small parks in medium-sized tropical cities remain limited. This study addresses this gap by examining the air temperature and humidity effects of a small urban park located in central Uberaba (MG), Brazil, on an adjacent urban canyon. The research draws on thermo-hygrometric data collected within the urban canopy layer through foot-based mobile surveys conducted during afternoon and nighttime periods in the 2022–2023 wet season. Metadata on urban and non-urban components within the study area were also analyzed to assess their influence on microclimate formation. Results show that, during the afternoon, the small park acted as a local adaptation asset by offering comfortable microclimatic conditions for urban dwellers. At night, a cool and moisture island effect was observed, with an average intensity of 1.3 °C, extending approximately 30–80 m beyond the park’s perimeter. These findings highlight the park’s role as a key element in local heat mitigation strategies and in enhancing urban thermal resilience.