Measuring Thermal Comfort Levels Using Temperature-Humidity Index (THI) in Duhok Governorate 2010–2023

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the spatial and temporal variations in thermal comfort levels in Duhok Governorate using the Temperature Humidity Index (THI). The research employed analytical inductive and descriptive methodologies, supported by quantitative techniques, by collecting climatic data from eight meteorological stations affiliated with the Directorate of Meteorology and Seismology in Duhok for the period 2010–2023. The findings revealed significant variations in thermal comfort levels among the study stations, differing from one station to another and from month to month. The study identified October as the most thermally comfortable month, followed by May. In contrast, the winter months (December, January, and February) exhibited the highest levels of thermal discomfort due to the substantial drop in temperatures across most stations. Additionally, the results indicated that Zakho station recorded the highest annual thermal comfort level (comfortable), while Amadiya station experienced the highest level of thermal discomfort (cool) due to low temperatures and reduced relative humidity.