Determining the influence of population density on the land surface temperature based on remote sensing data and GIS techniques: application to Prizren, Kosovo

Abstract

The whole study was conducted for the Municipality of Prizren and aims to to determine the effect that the population density has on land surface temperature (LST). All this was achieved through the connection of land surface temperature (LST) and population density. The free Landsat 8 satellite image downloaded from the United States Geological Survey website was used and then processed using GIS and remote sensing techniques. To understand the relationship between population density and LST, we performed a regression analysis. This analysis showed a strong positive relationship with a value of r = 0.8206, emphasizing the important role that the population has in creating empowering areas that generate surface urban heat island (SUHI) effect. The results of the study clearly showed that in the northern, central, and western parts there are pixels with high LST values. This presentation corresponds with the population density, which means that it is precisely the actions of the population that help generate, display, and strengthen the harmful effect of the SUHI. The map with areas of high LST pixels are of great importance to the policymakers and urban planners of Prizren so that they can orient themselves in these areas and take all actions necessary to minimize this harmful effect which is worrying citizens. If it continues with unplanned development, the peripheral parts of Prizren are seriously endangered by the damage of the spaces which offer protection (green spaces) from the SUHI phenomenon.