Athens urban heat islands show temperature gaps up to 10°C

Research conducted by the National Observatory of Athens (NOA) and the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens has highlighted the significant impact of urban heat islands within the Attica basin. A decade-long study using over 3,000 MODIS satellite images identified daily hot spots where land surface temperatures were 9 to 10 degrees Celsius higher than reference areas.

While satellite data measures land surface temperature, on-site measurements confirm substantial differences in air temperature as well. In central Athens, afternoon temperatures have been recorded up to 5 degrees Celsius higher than in suburban areas. Conversely, in the mornings, areas near large green spaces like the National Garden have seen temperatures up to 2 degrees Celsius lower. These variations are driven by urban density, asphalt, and traffic compared to areas with more trees, shade, and open spaces.