Publications

Khalil, M; Kumar, JS (2025). Time-series studies of land surface temperature in Damascus, Syria through MODIS by Google Earth Engine. ADVANCES IN SPACE RESEARCH, 75(2), 1960-1973.

Abstract
Urbanisation and changes in land use and land cover (LULC) significantly impact Urban Heat Islands (UHI). Despite extensive research on UHI, regional variations demand localised studies. This research assesses the UHI effect in Damascus, Syria, where rapid urbanisation threatens environmental balance. Leveraging Google Earth Engine, Landsat 8, and MODIS data, LULC changes, temper- ature patterns, NDVI, and NDBI, have been analysed with a focus on the summers of 2013, 2017, and 2022. Results revealed a substan- tial 12 % increase in urban areas between 2013-2022, accompanied by an 11 % decrease in green spaces. Land surface temperatures (LST) rose from 47.1 degrees C in 2013 to 48 degrees C in 2022. NDBI analysis confirmed built-up area expansion, while NDVI indicated dwindling vege- tation cover. The pronounced UHI effect (48.7 degrees C) in industrial and densely populated areas during summer were observed. A strong positive correlation existed between LST and NDBI 90 %, and a moderately negative correlation between LST and NDVI. These findings highlight the adverse impact of urbanisation on Damascus' climate. They underscore the need for urban planning strategies prioritising green space preservation and sustainable development to mitigate the UHI effect and ensure a healthier urban environment. (c) 2024 COSPAR. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.

DOI:
10.1016/j.asr.2024.10.044

ISSN:
1879-1948