A local climate that differs from the surrounding area due to elevation, vegetation, water bodies or urban features.
climateWhat is Microclimate?
Microclimates are everywhere in Southeast Asia. Hill stations like Cameron Highlands, Da Lat and Baguio are dramatically cooler than their surrounding lowlands. Urban parks are measurably cooler than the concrete streets around them (urban heat island mitigation). Rain shadows behind mountains create dry microclimates (Bagan in central Myanmar is a classic example). Understanding microclimates is essential for agriculture, tourism and urban planning.
Key points
- A local climate that differs from the surrounding area due to elevation, vegetation, water bodies or urban features.
- Category: climate
Related terms
See also: microclimate is connected to other weather concepts. Browse the full glossary for related definitions.