Modelling in Human Biometeorology: Spatial-Temporal Analysis of Thermal Indices ^†

The issue of the quantification of thermal comfort or heat stress on humans is in vogue nowadays. This is evident for indices, which are trying to quantify these effects. Most known indices are PET, modified PET, SET*, PT and UTCI. All thermal indices require the same thermo-physiological and meteorological parameters. Air temperature, air humidity, wind speed, and short and long wave radiation fluxes in terms of mean radiant temperature are the required meteorological parameters. For human thermo-physiology, information about heat production and clothing are required. The meteorological parameters have to be available in appropriate spatial and temporal scales depending on the target and the specific issues demanded. The appropriate spatial and temporal resolution data cannot only be delivered by measurement stations. Meso and micro scale models, which compute meteorological parameter and thermal indices, can be helpful in the development of mitigation and adaptation strategies in the era of climate change.