Assessment of Bioclimatic Comfort Thresholds in Karbala Governorate Using PET, mPET, and CTIS Indices
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31185/eduj.Vol65.Iss1.5463Keywords:
Thermal Comfort, Tourism, Karbala, PET, mPET, CTISAbstract
In the context of the intensifying impacts of climate change and the increasing frequency of extreme heat waves، tourism in hot, arid cities such as Karbala (Iraq) has become increasingly vulnerable to heat stress, particularly seasonal religious tourism characterized by high population density. This study aims to provide a detailed analysis of human bioclimatic conditions in Karbala using the Physiological Equivalent Temperature (PET) index, the Modified PET (mPET) index, and the Climate–Tourism Information Transfer Scheme (CTIS), based on hourly climatic data for the period 2013–2024. The RayMan model was employed to calculate the relevant bioclimatic parameters at three representative times of day (07:00, 14:00, and 21:00 local time), and the results were analyzed in terms of daily and seasonal heat stress patterns. The results indicate that the highest levels of heat stress occur during midday hours in summer, whereas transitional seasons (spring and autumn) provide more favorable thermal conditions for tourism and religious activities، particularly during the morning and evening periods. The main scientific contribution of this study lies in the development of the first integrated bioclimatological data sheet for the city of Karbala. This data sheet combines PET, mPET, and CTIS information in a simplified format tailored to the needs of local tourism planning. It serves as both a scientific and practical tool to support visitors and decision-makers in organizing tourism and religious activities in accordance with local climatic characteristics(K1). Owing to its clear visual presentation and ease of interpretation، this tool has high applicability for climate adaptation strategies and climate-sensitive tourism management in Karbala.
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