Sigma Xi Poster Competition
Assessing the Impact of Land Cover Change on Surface Temperature at Lexington, Kentucky
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Graduate
Major
Earth and Environmental Science
Minor
Geoinformatics
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Bassil El Masri
Presentation Format
Poster Presentation
Abstract/Description
Urbanization has significantly altered land cover in many cities, contributing to rising land surface temperatures (LST) and exacerbating the urban heat island (UHI) effect. This study investigates the relationship between land cover change and surface temperature in Lexington, Kentucky, using high-resolution ECOSTRESS Land Surface Temperature data and Landsat imagery. By analyzing historical and recent land cover data, the research aims to assess how urban expansion and vegetation loss impact local thermal dynamics. Through supervised classification, spatial overlays, and change detection techniques, the study identifies patterns in temperature variation linked to land cover modifications. Preliminary findings suggest that increased impervious surfaces correspond with higher LST values, while vegetated areas exhibit cooler temperatures. The outcomes will inform urban planning and sustainability strategies, offering evidence-based recommendations to mitigate UHI effects and enhance climate resilience in Lexington.
Spring Scholars Week 2025
Sigma Xi Poster Competition
Assessing the Impact of Land Cover Change on Surface Temperature at Lexington, Kentucky
Urbanization has significantly altered land cover in many cities, contributing to rising land surface temperatures (LST) and exacerbating the urban heat island (UHI) effect. This study investigates the relationship between land cover change and surface temperature in Lexington, Kentucky, using high-resolution ECOSTRESS Land Surface Temperature data and Landsat imagery. By analyzing historical and recent land cover data, the research aims to assess how urban expansion and vegetation loss impact local thermal dynamics. Through supervised classification, spatial overlays, and change detection techniques, the study identifies patterns in temperature variation linked to land cover modifications. Preliminary findings suggest that increased impervious surfaces correspond with higher LST values, while vegetated areas exhibit cooler temperatures. The outcomes will inform urban planning and sustainability strategies, offering evidence-based recommendations to mitigate UHI effects and enhance climate resilience in Lexington.