Air Temperature and Humidity in the Northern Zone of Natal (RN): Horizons for Urban Climate Justice.
Thermo-hygrometric modeling; Local Climate Zones (LCZ); Urban Climate Justice
This research investigates the dynamics of air temperature and humidity in the Zona Norte (ZN) of Natal/RN, seeking heat adaptation strategies in the face of the climate crisis and the process of corporate urbanization. The general objective is to develop heat mapping for the Zona Norte of Natal/RN, based on thermo-hygrometric modeling, apparent temperature classification (measured by the Heat Index - HI), and the integration of socio-spatial data (air temperature and social vulnerability), aiming to provide recommendations for territorial planning. The methodology consisted of: (1) Geographic, social, and environmental framing of the study area;
(2) In situ climate data collection; (3) Heat modeling through the Local Climate Zones (LCZ) methodology; (4) Heat Index calculation; and (5) Map algebra. Consequently, the research will result in the Mapping of Urban Thermal Injustice. The expected results include customized recommendations for urban planning, emphasizing the concept of Urban Climate Justice in the search for “horizons of adaptation” in peripheral areas. Within its limitations, this study contributes to Geography, particularly Geographical Climatology, by envisioning a science that connects the modeling-society-atmosphere triad and understands that thermal phenomena are simultaneously natural and social.