โ™ป๏ธap environmental science review

Urban heat islands

Written by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2027 exam
Verified for the 2027 examโ€ขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated August 2025

Definition

Areas in cities where temperatures are significantly higher than surrounding rural areas due to urbanization and reduced vegetation, increased impervious surfaces, and anthropogenic heat sources.

AP course connection

Topic 5.10: 5.10 Impacts of Urbanization

Unit 5