Modeling the Impact of Atmospheric Electromagnetic Radiation on Urban Heat Island Dynamics: A Physics-Based Approach

Abstract

Urban Heat Islands (UHIs) significantly influence local climate, energy consumption, and public health, yet the role of atmospheric electromagnetic (EM) radiation in UHI dynamics remains underexplored. This study presents a physics-based modeling approach to quantify the impact of EM radiation—including solar, terrestrial, and anthropogenic sources—on UHI intensity. By integrating radiative transfer equations (RTEs) with urban microclimate models, we simulate the absorption, scattering, and thermal effects of EM waves across different urban geometries and materials. High-resolution remote sensing data and ground-based measurements validate the model, revealing that microwave and infrared bands contribute disproportionately to localized heating. Our results demonstrate that electromagnetic interactions amplify UHI effects by 10–15% in dense urban areas, particularly near high-reflectivity surfaces and RF-emitting infrastructure. Furthermore, the model identifies mitigation strategies, such as spectrally selective coatings and vegetation-based shielding, to reduce radiative heat trapping. This work advances the understanding of EM-driven thermal dynamics in cities and provides a predictive framework for sustainable urban planning in a warming climate.