A multiscale outlook of the heat islands phenomenon in the Milan area

Urban heat island (uhi) phenomenon, intensified by climate change, challenges cities and affects public health and well-being. This study explores the uhi in Milan from a multiscale perspective – regional, urban, and intra-urban – highlighting the impact of land use, urban morphology, and vegetation on temperature patterns. On the regional scale, the study identifies a heat island effect that is particularly responsive to variations in land cover. City-wide analysis shows the uhi intensity reaching up to 3.0°C at night. The intra-urban analysis reveals how urban geometry and vegetation shape the microclimate and reduce heat stress. The findings advocate for scalespecific urban planning strategies, emphasizing green infrastructure and climate-resilient designs to alleviate uhi effects.