Spatio-Temporal Mapping of Urban Heat Island in Ikeja Local Government Area of Lagos State

Urban Heat Island (UHI) is a significant factor in human health problems, expected to increase with urban population growth. This study aimed to assess the spatial extent of UHI in Ikeja Local Government Area of Lagos State from 1992 to 2022, assess the dynamics of UHI associated with land use/land cover changes, determine the dynamics of urban heat hazards, and mitigate UHI through urban green area planning. The study used Land Surface Temperature (LST) as an indicator and Landsat images to determine land use and land cover (LULC) over the years. The Linear Trend Method was used to forecast UHI, LULC, and future effects of LULC on UHI dynamics. Results showed that UHI increased in Ikeja LGA between 1992 and 2022 due to an increase in non-vegetation cover and a decrease in vegetation cover. Forecasts for 2032 showed that built-up area and bare land will continue to increase, while vegetation will continue to decline, contributing to an increase in UHI. To mitigate UHI and its hazards, it is recommended to conduct urban heat hazard and vulnerability assessments, identify populations susceptible to these hazards, and conduct site suitability analysis for creating green areas within Ikeja LGA. This will help mitigate UHI and its impacts on inhabitation.