Applicability verification and framework optimization of local climate zoning in thermal environment assessment in complex terrain areas: A case study of Chongqing

Abstract Urbanization and global warming have significantly intensified urban heat island (UHI) effects, contributing to the degradation of urban thermal environments and posing serious risks to public health and energy consumption. Addressing these challenges requires a systematic and accurate assessment framework. The Local Climate Zone (LCZ) classification system provides a useful foundation by categorizing urban areas based on surface cover and morphological characteristics. However, its limited consideration of terrain variables such as topography and elevation can reduce its accuracy, particularly in regions with complex terrain. This study proposes a multi-source, data-driven methodology that integrates satellite remote sensing imagery, digital elevation models (DEMs), three-dimensional urban morphology data, and multi-temporal surface temperature observations. The approach is applied to areas with intricate topography to evaluate the applicability and limitations of the conventional LCZ framework. By incorporating terrain features into the classification process, the proposed method enhances the precision of urban thermal assessments. The findings offer a more reliable scientific basis for developing targeted urban cooling strategies, especially in geographically complex regions.