Urban bioclimatology in an intermediate Latin American city with a temperate climate (Bahía Blanca, Argentina)

Resumo

This article aims to characterise the spatio-temporal variability of thermal comfort in Bahía Blanca between 1961 and 2020, including during extreme thermal events (heatwaves and coldwaves). Meteorological records from three stations located in different parts of the city were used to calculate the Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET) index, using the RayMan Pro tool. The results provide new information on the city’s bioclimatology and on the spatio-temporal distribution of thermal comfort conditions. Cold stress was more frequent than heat stress in Bahía Blanca. Daily bioclimatic indicators revealed extreme cold stress during the night and early morning hours, and a higher frequency of heat stress between 13:00 and 17:00. During extreme heat events, PET values exceeded 41°C, while during coldwaves, minimum PET ranged from -8.3°C to -18.1°C. In the surrounding suburban area, winter cold stress was more severe than in central and coastal areas. In the urban centre, heat stress was more intense during the central hours of the day and in summer. Coastal areas experienced less cold stress at night and less heat stress during the day.