THE INFLUENCE OF VEGETATION ON MICROCLIMATE IN HOT HUMID TROPICAL ENVIRONMENT: A CASE OF ENUGU URBAN (Published)
Controlling direct solar radiation and increasing wind velocity to its Optimum capacity are part of planning strategies employed in the design of urban open spaces especially in hot humid tropical environment. Vegetation has the ability to reduce excessive air temperature through sunlight interception. Its geometric configuration influences the amount of solar radiation, air temperature, humidity and wind velocity on microclimate of a given area. Panning strategies aimed at reducing solar heat through application of vegetation were discussed. It also discussed the problem of thermal heat stress affecting the residents of Enugu Urban. The results were analyzed and solutions recommended.
Keywords: Open Space; Planning Strategies; Solar Radiation; Tropical Environment; Urban Microclimate.