What is the Heat Island Effect and how does it affect our temperatures?

[00:00:00]This heat continues into the summer, some areas will be feeling these temperatures more than others. News 5 Meteorologist Lauren Brand is here to explain what's called the heat island effect.

[00:00:12]>> A high pressure system is really heating us up and some parts of the city hold on to this heat better than others. It's called the heat island effect.

[00:00:21]The urban heat island or urban heat effect occurs when a more developed city or town experiences warmer temperatures than less developed areas. Dark pavement, concrete, and even buildings absorb this energy and heat from the sun. These more developed areas heat up more than their rural counterparts.

[00:00:39]Grass and soil won't absorb as much energy, so it won't warm up as much. We can feel this overnight after the sun sets. Grass will let go of that energy while black pavement, concrete, and buildings hold on to it. Overnight lows can be a few degrees warmer in these areas. The southeast side of Colorado Springs is susceptible to this phenomenon. On average, that area is 4 to 8 degrees warmer than surrounding areas. This spring, the city gave away dozens of trees to people who live there for them to plant. By covering the area with more trees, the pavement cannot absorb as much heat from the sun. With heat advisories in effect today, make sure to take plenty of shade breaks, drink water, and put on sunscreen. In studio, Meteorologist Lauren Brand, News 5.