Mesoclimatic Heat Stress Variations Measured by the Wet-Bulb-Globe-Thermometer.
Abstract
Observations were taken on 19 days in July and August 1973 with instrumentation designed to allow computation of the wet-bulb-globe-temperature heat-stress index (WBGT) at selected locations in central North Carolina. The purpose of the observational program was to assess the effects at local influences such as tree cover, surface material, and urbanization on the WBGT. In most cases observations were taken simultaneously at a standard site (over grass) and a special site where significantly different WBGT values might be expected. At standard sites there were 221 observations with an average WBGT of 85F and a maximum WBGT of 92F. An important conclusion of the study therefore is that spot readings of the WBGT must be interpreted carefully where variable cloudiness is a factor. WBGT values under a forest canopy averaged 7-9F lower than in the open, indicating a significant difference in heat stress between open and wooded locations. (Modified author abstract)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1974
- Accession Number
- AD0787539
Entities
People
- Arthur V. Dodd
- Richard J. Kopec
Organizations
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill