Assessing Thermal Climate and Key Climatic Factors Influenced by Solar Radiation in the Niger Delta

Chinonso Stanley Lawrence; Vincent Ezikornwor Weli; Meelubari Barinua Kpang

Chinonso Stanley Lawrence Department of Geography and Environmental Management, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Vincent Ezikornwor Weli Department of Geography and Environmental Management, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Meelubari Barinua Kpang Department of Geography and Environmental Management, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Keywords: Thermal Climate, Niger Delta, Solar Radiation, Climate Change, Trend Analysis

Abstract

The Niger Delta, a critical ecological zone in Nigeria, faces significant environmental challenges due to its complex network of creeks, rivers, and mangrove swamps. Among these challenges, the thermal climate—characterized by temperature variations and influenced by climatic factors—plays a pivotal role in the region's environmental health, agricultural productivity, and human well-being. This study employs a longitudinal correlational research design to assess thermal climate patterns and the influence of solar radiation on key climatic factors in the Niger Delta over an extended period (2014-2023). The analysis reveals that surface air temperatures across the region consistently range from approximately 24°C to 27°C, reflecting the region's tropical climate. Variations in temperature extremes among the states are evident, with Delta and Cross River experiencing minimum temperatures of 24.4°C and 24.1°C, respectively, while Edo and Ondo record maximum temperatures of 27.9°C and 27.3°C. These variations are influenced by local factors such as elevation, air pollution levels, proximity to water bodies, and vegetation cover, which play a critical role in temperature regulation. The mean surface air temperature across the states shows a relatively consistent range between 25.5°C and 26.3°C, while the standard deviation indicates varying degrees of temperature variability. The Mann-Kendall test for surface air temperature trends across the region reveals predominantly positive tau values, indicating an overall increasing temperature trend. However, statistical significance varies across states, with some regions, like Cross River, showing significant warming trends, while others do not, suggesting the impact of localized environmental and land use factors on temperature dynamics. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the thermal climate in the Niger Delta, highlighting the region's consistent warmth and the importance of understanding local variations for climate adaptation and resilience planning. The findings have significant implications for agriculture, energy, and public health, emphasizing the need for tailored climate mitigation and adaptation strategies that address the unique climatic conditions of each state within the Niger Delta.

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