Yuma Summer Microclimate
Abstract
Detailed and continuous temperature, wind, and radiation records for a 2-month summer period under diverse terrain conditions at Yuma Test Station, Arizona, were analyzed. It was found that the temperature regime near and at the Earth's surface varies significantly from the regime as found by standard observations. Midday temperatures greater that 140 deg F were frequent on both sand and desert pavement surfaces. Temperatures at level 200 centimeters above these surfaces were seldom more than 110 deg F. The wind regimes at the relatively low sandy plains and desert pavement sites were quite similar, with strongest winds in the afternoon and very light winds at night. Winds measured at the crest of a hill averaged stronger day and night and had important effects on the temperature regime. The total incoming radiation at Yuma Test Station at midday is extremely high, often exceeding 500 btu/sq ft/hr. Outgoing radiation is also at a maximum at midday when it averages over 300 btu/sq ft/hr. The net radiation is positive (incoming) for an average of 12 hours each day, and exceeds 150 btu/sq ft/hr for an average of 6 hours each day. At night there is a small negative radiation balance.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1959
- Accession Number
- AD0229785
Entities
People
- Arthur V. Dodd
- Harry S. Mcphilimy