Millions to swelter as new Sydney airport turns into summer 'heat sink'
In a suburb that has previously recorded peaks of 50.1C on extreme heat days during summer, the new airport could essentially act as a "heat sink", heating up millions of surrounding homes.
Western Sydney is preparing for sweltering summer temperatures as a new airport is set to become a heat sink, intensifying heat in nearby suburbs. Badgerys Creek, home to the airport site, has recorded extreme heat peaks of 50.1C, making the region one of the hottest in Sydney. Professor Sebastian Pfautsch, an urban planning expert, warns that the airport could exacerbate heat in areas like St Marys, which has already hit 48.9C.
The airport's extensive black tarmac and other hard surfaces absorb heat, reducing the natural cooling effect of southern winds, which usually reach Penrith, St Marys, and Emu Plains. Climate change risk assessments were conducted during the airport's design, but Professor Pfautsch suggests additional measures like tree canopies and reflective tarmac paint could help mitigate the urban heating effect.
Higher summer temperatures at the new airport could impact aircraft performance, leading to longer take-offs and landings, and potentially diverting flights to Sydney Airport.
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