Comparativo do cenário climatológico e do conforto térmico das capitais litorâneas do nordeste brasileiro

Abstract

This research comprehensively addressed thermal comfort in the capitals of the Northeast Region of Brazil (RNB), which are close to the coast, over the period from 1961 to 2020. The study focused on the analysis of heat indices (IC) and human thermal discomfort (IDK), aiming to understand climate dynamics and their effects on the population's thermal sensation. Among the meteorological variables considered, maximum temperatures revealed significant increases, highlighting regional climate changes in RNB. When observing the heat indices, the worrying incidence of extreme values in São Luis and Fortaleza stood out, signaling considerable risks to public health, such as heatstroke and strokes. The comparative analysis between the periods of 1961-1990 and 1991-2020 indicated a consistent rise in maximum temperatures in most capitals. Furthermore, a notable increase in minimum temperatures throughout the year was observed in the cities of São Luís and Maceió, while in Natal and Recife, this increase was significant in the months near the Southern Hemisphere's spring/summer seasons. Regarding human thermal discomfort, the research identified a growing trend in values, especially in recent decades. This suggests a worsening of thermal comfort conditions for the population, requiring attention to adaptation and mitigation policies.