Why are cities getting hotter and hotter?

In recent years, it has become evident to those living in cities such as Luanda, Benguela or Huambo: the heat is more intense, more frequent and harder to bear. This reality is not just a perception, there are scientific and urban causes that explain why Angolan cities are getting hotter.

One of the main factors is the phenomenon known as the urban heat island, which causes cities to record higher temperatures than the surrounding rural areas.

• Asphalt and concrete absorb and retain heat;
• The scarcity of trees reduces natural cooling;
• The density of buildings makes air circulation difficult;

Unplanned urban growth

Rapid urbanization in Angola has led to the expansion of neighborhoods without proper planning, directly contributing to rising temperatures.

• Reduction of green areas;
• Construction in unplanned areas;
• Lack of spaces for natural ventilation;

Deforestation and loss of vegetation

Vegetation plays a fundamental role in thermal balance. Trees help cool the environment through shade and evapotranspiration. With increased construction and intensive use of natural resources, many urban areas have lost their green cover, worsening the heat.

Global climate change

The warming of cities is also linked to global climate change, which has caused an increase in average temperatures, more intense heatwaves, and changes in rainfall patterns.

Pollution and human activity

The use of vehicles, generators and electrical equipment contributes to the release of heat and pollutants into the urban environment.
In cities with heavy traffic and failures in the power supply, the frequent use of generators further worsens the temperature.

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Lack of climate planning

Many cities still do not incorporate sustainable solutions into their urban planning, such as:

• Use of heat-reflective materials;
• Creation of green areas;
• Urban ventilation planning;
• Climate-adapted infrastructure;

Consequences of rising heat

• Health problems (dehydration, heat fatigue);
• Increased energy consumption;
• Reduced quality of life;
• Economic and social impacts;

What can be done?

Despite the challenges, there are practical solutions to reduce heat in cities:

• Planting trees;
• Creation of urban parks;
• Use of sustainable materials;
• Better urban planning;
• Environmental education;

The increase in temperatures in Angolan cities results from a combination of rapid urban growth, reduction of green areas and climate change. With appropriate strategies, it is possible to make cities cooler, more sustainable and more pleasant to live in.

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