What is the Heat Island Effect and how does it affect our temperatures?
Jun 17, 2026
It was a scorcher across Colorado today with highs well into the 90s and some areas even into the triple digits. This was due to a high-pressure system sitting over the region. If we look a little more closely though, temperatur
es were a few degrees warmer in bigger towns and cities. This is due to something called the "Urban Heat Island" or the Heat Island Effect. This happens when black top pavement, concrete, and buildings absorb more energy from the sun. These surfaces also hold onto this energy and heat more so than grass and soil. Even overnight when the sun sets, these surfaces will still hold onto this heat. Overnight lows for Denver vs surrounding areas will actually be warmer. On a more local note, the southeast side of Colorado Springs has a lot of pavement and concrete. Locals have even been given trees to plant to help combat this.____Have a question or story idea you would like the First Alert 5 Weather team to consider? Email: [email protected] KOAA News5 on your time, anytime with our free streaming app available for your Roku, FireTV, AppleTV and Android TV. Just search KOAA News5, download and start watching.
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