Verticalization and Urban Climate Variations

A Case Study in Águas Claras, Federal District

Abstract

This study analyzed the influence of verticalization and urban morphology on the formation of microclimates in Águas Claras (Federal District, Brazil), one of the most densely populated areas of the Federal District (3,108.71 inhabitants/km²). To this end, a series of measurements were taken using a mobile transect during different times of day and seasons, covering strategic points that reflect distinct land-use patterns. At these points, the Sky View Factor (SVF) and the height/width ratio (H/W) were analyzed. The results indicate that more open areas, with low H/W values and high SVF, showed the highest temperatures and lowest relative humidity, while densely built-up areas, with high degree of urban enclosure, presented lower average temperatures and higher relative humidity. The analysis shows that urban form and vertical density significantly modulate urban energy balance, shading, and ventilation, highlighting the need to incorporate morphological parameters into the planning of tropical cities to mitigate thermal discomfort and the formation of urban heat island.