This is a short recap of the Pilot cities activities during the CityCLIM project. It does not cover all activities as they are described in the newsletters and former blog posts but some of the major contributions are described here.
Karlsruhe's Innovative Approach to Climate Monitoring with the UltraHD Model
The Karlsruhe city administration has taken a forward-thinking approach to urban climate forecasting by providing a detailed digital 3D city model as input for the UltraHD Model. This model enhances the city's ability to predict urban climate effects, such as shading and low-level atmospheric processes, offering more precise and localized weather forecasts.
Fig: Average temperature differences between morning (6-9 am, local time) data gathered during the citizen science measurement campaign (July 18 – September 22, 2023) and data from DWD Station Rheinstetten, for the city area of Karlsruhe.
Citizen Science in Action: Summer 2023 Temperature Measurement Campaign
In the summer of 2023, 21 Karlsruhe citizens took part in a citizen science initiative aimed at measuring local temperature variations across the city and its surroundings. Equipped with MeteoTracker devices, participants cycled through various areas, recording temperatures along their routes. The data they collected was then compared with measurements from a German Weather Service station located just outside the city. This comparison highlighted the expected temperature differences—warmer conditions in the city center and cooler temperatures in the surrounding forests and fields.
Fig: The city map of hot days with the integrated CityCLIM heat information service
Expanding Karlsruhe's Weather Sensor Network
As part of the CityCLIM initiative, ten weather sensors were installed across Karlsruhe. These sensors provided valuable data for the UltraHD model and offered important climate information to both the city administration and its citizens. These initial installations serve as the foundation for a much larger network of weather sensors that the municipal council plans to implement in the future, with the goal of identifying urban heat islands and other critical climate patterns. The experience gained from deploying these sensors will be instrumental in the ongoing planning of the broader network.
CityCLIM Heat Information Service for Public Awareness
In response to the growing concern over heat waves, Karlsruhe has integrated the CityCLIM heat information service into its existing city map. This service provides citizens with important information on how to stay safe during extreme heat events, including advice on where to find relief throughout the city. The service also includes a dedicated temperature forecast section, featuring an interactive map and a brief explanatory text to help users understand the forecast and its implications.
Karlsruhe’s efforts to incorporate advanced climate modeling, citizen engagement, and comprehensive public information services are a testament to the city’s commitment to proactive climate management and urban resilience. Through these initiatives, the city is better equipped to tackle the challenges posed by urban heat and climate change.
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