LCZ thermal and exoatmospheric albedo assessment using Landsat 8 land surface temperature and reflectance dataset: Case study of Lisbon

Abstract

This study investigates microclimate changes induced by urbanization, with a focus on the Urban Heat Island (UHI) phenomenon and the crucial role of Land Surface Temperature (LST). Using the Landsat 8 Land Surface Temperature and Reflectance dataset obtained from the USGS Earth Explorer platform, the research evaluates LST and exoatmospheric albedo characteristics within Lisbon's Metropolitan Area across a defined set of thermal periods from 2015 to 2020. Among the findings, the Bare Soil or Sand LCZ consistently exhibits heightened LST values, while the Large Low Rise urban LCZ consistently records the highest temperatures, exceeding 54 °C and 55 °C in spring and summer and 43.8 °C and 37.8 °C in autumn and winter, respectively. These insights, derived from a meticulous examination of the Landsat 8 dataset and advanced processing methods, bear critical implications for climate change adaptation strategies, providing valuable insights to mitigate the adverse effects of the Urban Heat Island and foster sustainable urban development practices.