How complex terrains reshape urban wind patterns and cooling effects: evidence from a high-density weather observation network in Hangzhou Bay, China

Yu, Bu, Luo, Zhiwen ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2082-3958, Chen, Feng, Xie, Peng, Miao, Shiguang and Zhong, Yige 2025. How complex terrains reshape urban wind patterns and cooling effects: evidence from a high-density weather observation network in Hangzhou Bay, China. Sustainable Cities and Society 130 , 106526. 10.1016/j.scs.2025.106526

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Abstract

Understanding how complex terrain influences urban wind patterns and cooling effects is crucial for addressing urban heat island (UHI) impacts and promoting climate-resilient cities. This study explores how terrain and urbanization jointly shape local wind systems and cooling in the Hangzhou Bay area, China, utilizing observational data from up to 574 meteorological stations (July–September, 2017–2021). Mixed local circulations occur 29–57 % of the time. In this region, strong UHI intensity can advance or delay local wind onset by 1–2 h and modify wind direction transitions, with clear west–east contrasts linked to the area's specific terrain—mountains to the west, sea to the east. These findings reflect localized interactions rather than universal patterns. Nocturnal mountain winds contribute over 2.5°C·h of cooling, especially from 17:00 to 19:00, with effects lasting ∼9 h - significantly stronger than those of daytime sea breezes. However, these winds may intensify UHI effects by disproportionately cooling rural over urban areas. The results highlight the importance of region-specific station selection when assessing UHI, to avoid misinterpretations driven by local wind influences. This work provides actionable insights for improving urban ventilation and thermal comfort in complex terrain settings.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Schools > Architecture
Publisher:	Elsevier
ISSN:	2210-6707
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	24 June 2025
Date of Acceptance:	6 June 2025
Last Modified:	24 Jun 2025 09:30
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/178877

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