Variability of air temperature over topographical complex territory at microscale

The microclimate is characterised by a high temporal and spatial variability of all its parameters. In particular, variability is mainly due to geo-topographical parameters, land cover, soil characteristics, horizon and obstacles proximity. In addition, meteorological variables are characterised by continuous variations during time due both to cyclic and casual variations.The aim of the present research was the analysis of the spatial and temporal variability of the thermal field of a small area (about 120 ha) with complex topography. The analysis on the trend of minimum temperature highlighted a strong temporal variability and spatial stability. The behaviour of each station was constant during months and the relations among the different measuring areas were stable. Similar results were found for mean temperature that have a smaller variability. Very different was the result for maximum temperature for which a very high variability was detected. In fact, this parameter is directly related to solar radiation and it depends on the instantaneous conditions. The consequence is a high variability in the relations among stations.