The Exploratory Study of Normalized Indicator of Heat Vulnerability Index (HVI) By Using Functional Relationship

Abstract

Extreme urban heat, a major environmental stressor caused by urbanisation, poses a substantial hazard to human health and well-being. The environmental, demographic, and health-related risk factors for heat stress must be identified as the urban population grows. As a result, this study provides insight into city people’ heat susceptibility and its extent at the district level. This examination was carried out using a multivariate index that included evaluations of the exposure, sensitivity, and coping ability components. Using nine indicators for three different characteristics, this study examined data on the spatial distribution from diverse sources such as satellite imaging processing and quantitative analysis output. This study employed a normalised indicator method that used functional relationships to normalise all of the indicators in the unit or a scale-free method. The index’s value of each parameter is then processed using weightage formula. Kuala Lumpur district has been rated as the most vulnerable to heat, followed by Petaling and Hulu Langat, according to the heat vulnerability index produced. The findings demonstrated a regional pattern of heat vulnerability, with significant differences between individual spatial indexes. While exposure and adaptive capacities have a distinct regional pattern, sensitivity has a more complicated spatial pattern. All factors were statistically significant as markers in the development of the heat vulnerability index, according to this study. In a highly dynamic metropolitan region, these criteria can be used for both urban planning and suggesting special strategies to reduce heat dangers.