How does urbanization impact local weather patterns?.

Urbanization impacts local weather patterns primarily through the urban heat island (UHI) effect, where urban areas experience higher temperatures than surrounding rural areas. This is caused by the concentration of buildings, roads, and other infrastructure that absorb and retain heat. Additionally, urbanization can alter local wind patterns and precipitation levels, as well as contribute to pollution, which affects air quality and climate. These changes have implications for local ecosystems, health, and urban planning.