The Influence of Urban Design on Relative Humidity

A Microclimatic Simulation Study in Niterói, Brazil

Authors

  • Steffany Martins dos Santos Mestre em Arquitetura e Urbanismo, UFF, Brasil ,
  • Gabriel Souza Freitas Mestre em Arquitetura e Urbanismo, UFF, Brasil ,
  • Louise Land Bittencourt Lomardo Professora Doutora, UFF, Brasil ,

Keywords:

Relative humidity, ENVI-met, Urban Microclimate

Abstract

Objective – To evaluate the influence of different urban configurations on relative humidity, with the aim of understanding the role each plays in modulating the urban microclimate.

Methodology – Simulations were performed using ENVI-met software for three scenarios: the current state of the site, the implementation of a planned building, and the inclusion of a green park. Relative humidity was analyzed over a 24-hour period on April 18, 2022.

Originality/Relevance – The study highlights relative humidity as a key microclimatic indicator, contributing to discussions on the impact of urban vegetation on environmental quality in cities.

Results – The green park scenario had higher humidity levels during the hottest hours of the day, while the densely developed scenario had the lowest levels, especially at night.

Theoretical/Methodological Contributions – Reinforces the use of ENVI-met as an effective tool for microclimatic simulations applied to sustainable urban planning.

Social and Environmental Contributions – The results highlight the role of green spaces in promoting environmental comfort and supporting public policies aimed at improving urban spaces. 

References

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Published

2025-05-27

Issue

Vol. 3 No. 13 (2025): "Special Edition: Proceedings of the 2nd Brazilian Congress on 'Climate Change and Urban Resilience'".

Section

Categoria - Trabalho Completo

License

Copyright (c) 2025 Scientific Journal ANAP

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

How to Cite

SANTOS, Steffany Martins dos; FREITAS , Gabriel Souza; LOMARDO, Louise Land Bittencourt. The Influence of Urban Design on Relative Humidity: A Microclimatic Simulation Study in Niterói, Brazil. Scientific Journal ANAP, [S. l.], v. 3, n. 13, 2025. Disponível em: https://publicacoes.amigosdanatureza.org.br/index.php/anap/article/view/5676. Acesso em: 9 jan. 2026.