Singapore, the sunny island nation, is known for its warm climate. However, recent studies reveal that not all parts of this bustling city-state experience the same temperatures. A striking temperature difference of up to 6.5°C exists between the Central Business District (CBD) — the warmest region — and Upper Peirce Reservoir Park, one of the coolest areas.
The Urban Heat Phenomenon in the CBD
On May 13, 2022, Singapore recorded its highest-ever temperature for May at 36.7°C. Sustainable development consultancy Arup investigated this phenomenon and found the CBD, with a high percentage of hard, impermeable surface cover and minimal vegetation cover, to be the hottest spot in Singapore.
This area suffers from a severe Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect, a phenomenon where urban regions are warmer than rural areas due to heat generated by human activities and urban structures. Consequently, the UHI effect increased temperatures in the CBD by 6°C on that day.
Source: TODAY
Beyond High-Rise Areas
While it’s no surprise that high-rise, densely packed areas like Raffles Place and Shenton Way are warmer due to the UHI effect, the study also uncovered unexpected hot spots. Despite their green spaces and proximity to Marina Bay, historic low-rise streets like Telok Ayer and Amoy Street were 6°C warmer than their rural surroundings.
This increase in temperature is attributed to the surrounding high-rise buildings that block the cooling effect from the nearby coast and the dark terracotta roofs of the shophouses absorbing and releasing heat into the environment. Outside the CBD, neighbourhoods such as Kampong Ubi, Rochor, Marine Parade, Orchard, and Sembawang also experienced temperature differences of over 5°C compared to their surroundings.
Discovering Singapore’s Cool Spots Amidst Urban Heat
Contrasting the urban heat in the CBD, Upper Peirce Reservoir Park was identified as the coolest area in Singapore. This park, covered primarily with water and vegetation, was 6.5°C cooler than the CBD. Other cool zones, such as Lim Chu Kang, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, and Khatib Bongsu, are also areas rich in forests or reservoirs.
Source: Arup
A Global Warming Issue
Urban heat is not just a local issue. Cities worldwide, including Cairo, London, Los Angeles, Madrid, Mumbai, and New York, face similar challenges, particularly in areas with less than six per cent vegetation cover. With Singapore heating up twice as fast as the rest of the world, it’s clear that tackling urban heat must be a priority.
Join the Fight Against Urban Heat
Source: Rosland Rahman/AFP
As parents, educators, and responsible citizens, we have a crucial role to play in mitigating the effects of urban heat. By educating our children about the importance of green spaces, advocating for sustainable urban planning, and practising eco-friendly habits, we can contribute to cooling our city. Together, let’s take action to combat urban heat and ensure a cooler future for our children.
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