Effect of Kuwait oil field fires on human comfort and environment in Jubail, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

The plumes from the Kuwait oil field fires reduced hemispheric (total) solar radiation by 26-36% during January-June 1991 in Jubail (300 km SE of Kuwait City), Saudi Arabia. Residents feel noticeably cooler even though air temperatures have not been lowered significantly (up to June 1991). These observations support human comfort theories and demonstrate the importance of shade to comfort. The desirability of complete solar radiation measurements, including those of diffuse radiation, is indicated.