Evaluating the influence of Land Cover transformation on Coastal Land and Sea Surface Temperature Dynamics in Indian Peninsula

Understanding the dynamics of land surface temperature (LST) and sea surface temperature (SST) in coastal regions is crucial for addressing climate change impacts. This study investigates 20 years of MODIS-derived LST and SST data to assess the influence of land cover transformations on temperature patterns in the Indian Peninsula. Contrary to the prevailing emphasis on urbanization, our analysis reveals that shifts from forested areas to agricultural or barren lands have a more significant impact on temperature dynamics. Using geospatial techniques, we identify long-term trends and quantify the relative contributions of various land cover types to LST and SST variations. The findings highlight the critical role of non-urban land use changes in coastal temperature dynamics, challenging traditional perspectives. This study provides actionable insights for sustainable land management and climate adaptation strategies in coastal regions, emphasizing the need for integrated land use planning to mitigate thermal vulnerabilities in the face of global climate change.