AMBIENTE BIOCLIMÁTICO DA CIDADE DE TETE: DESMISTIFICANDO O MISTÉRIO DO CALOR INTENSO

Abstract

The city of Tete, located in central Mozambique, is known for its extremely high temperatures, making it the hottest city in the country. This study aims to analyse the bioclimatic environment of the city of Tete, identifying the natural and anthropogenic factors that contribute to the intense heat and proposing mitigation strategies. The methodology adopted includes a qualitative and quantitative approach, combining a literature review, analysis of historical meteorological data and observation of urban patterns. Long-term climatological data from local weather stations was used to assess thermal variation and the influence of factors such as insolation, humidity, wind speed and vegetation cover. In addition, remote sensing and geoprocessing techniques were applied to map urban heat islands and identify areas of greater thermal vulnerability. The preliminary results indicate that the geographical location of Tete, in a valley with low humidity and intense solar radiation, contributes significantly to the high temperatures. In addition, rapid urbanisation, the reduction of vegetation and the predominant use of building materials that retain heat exacerbate the phenomenon. The lack of adequate infrastructure for ventilation and shading in residential and commercial areas also exacerbates the thermal sensation in the city. Finally, the study suggests measures to minimise the effects of intense heat, including increasing urban afforestation, implementing sustainable materials in construction and developing urban planning policies that consider the population's thermal comfort. In this way, it is hoped to contribute to a better quality of life for the inhabitants and the city's adaptation to climate change.