Journal of Geoscience and Eco Agricultural Studies

Abstract

This study examines the spatio-temporal variations of Land Surface Temperature (LST) in Taraba Central Senatorial District, Nigeria, from 1987 to 2022, using remote sensing and GIS techniques. The research assesses LST trends in relation to land use/land cover (LULC) changes, highlighting the impact of deforestation, agricultural expansion, and urbanization on surface temperature dynamics. Landsat satellite imagery was analyzed to retrieve LST values and detect patterns of thermal variation across different land-use types. The findings reveal a significant increase in LST over time, with a notable reduction in cooler temperature zones and an expansion of hotter areas, particularly in built-up and deforested regions. Vegetated areas maintained lower LST, underscoring the role of natural land cover in temperature regulation. These results emphasize the need for sustainable land management strategies, afforestation programs, and climate adaptation policies to mitigate rising temperatures and promote environmental sustainability. The study demonstrates the effectiveness of geospatial techniques in monitoring LST variations and provides critical insights for policymakers and environmental planners in addressing climate-related challenges in the region..