ASSESSMENT OF OUTDOOR THERMAL HUMAN COMFORT OVER HOUCHE AL-OUMARA, NORTH LEBANON

This study examined thermal discomfort in Houche Al-Oumara between 1994 and 2021 using several discomfort indices and analyzing temperature, relative humidity, and rainfall data. The results showed that July and August recorded markedly higher mean temperatures than all other months, with July having the highest temperature overall. In contrast, January was identified as the coldest month. The study found a steady rise in mean air temperature from January to July, followed by a steady decline from July to December. Relative humidity showed the same pattern but in the opposite direction. Fewer than half of the residents experienced thermal discomfort during July and August. The research highlighted the need to understand long-term thermal discomfort trends in light of global warming, urbanization, and population growth. Alongside thermal discomfort, the study also assessed the occurrence of heat waves in Houche Al-Oumara between 1994 and 2021. The analysis showed that heat waves were a recurring feature in the area, appearing almost every year. The analysis of rainfall data showed considerable year-to-year variation in annual averages, with no consistent long-term trend. The study identified periods marked by several consecutive years of above-average or below-average rainfall. These findings offer useful guidance for policymakers working to improve human thermal comfort in rural areas, as they highlight the roles of air temperature, relative humidity, and rainfall. The results can support the development of strategies to reduce heat-related health risks and inform sustainable development planning in North Lebanon.