Assessing Urban Transformation and Its Impact on the Urban Heat Island Effect in Austin, Texas
This thesis explores the impact of urban transformation on the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect in Travis County, Texas, over a decade from 2013 to 2023. Utilizing Landsat 8 satellite imagery, the study focuses on the correlation between Land Use Land Cover (LULC) changes and Land Surface Temperature (LST). The analysis reveals significant expansion of built-up areas, primarily at the expense of soil cover, leading to a substantial increase in surface temperatures. Vegetation cover, though decreased, plays a crucial role in mitigating temperature rises. The findings emphasize the need for strategic urban planning to balance development with environmental sustainability, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions like Travis County.