APPLICABILITY OF GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEM AND REMOTE SENSING TECHNIQUES IN INVESTIGATING THE OCCURRENCE OF HEAT WAVES: A CASE STUDY OF NGABU

Interest in heatwaves and extreme heat events have increased globally over the past few years following the high profile of heat events across the globe. Heatwaves historically received little attention but with the rising temperatures on average, they are becoming more variable and extreme coupled with the increase in the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Several studies have been conducted worldwide addressing the phenomena with different approaches. In this research, the occurrence of heatwaves at Ngabu was investigated using remote sensing techniques and geographical information systems. The study examined the changes in land surface temperature for Ngabu from 2000 to 2020 and determined the occurrence of heatwaves using a percentile-based threshold justified by literature and study area climatology. The United States Geological Survey and Malawi meteorological department provided data used in the study. The results revealed that there are significant changes in LSTs between 2000 and 2020 and heatwaves are occurring of events influenced by high temperatures. The changes in LSTs can be attributed to reduction in vegetation and land use/ landcover change. Future climate trends is predicted to increase the magnitude of heatwave events; therefore, it is recommended to develop adequate adaptation, preventive strategies for societal vulnerability reducing and creating a culture of safety.