Inversion of Urban Heat Island Effect in Xi'an City

[Objective] We aimed to conduct the inversion of urban heat island effect in Xi'an City.[Method] Using the United States Landsat-7 ETM+ and TM data in different phases,we analyzed the spatial distribution and change trends of urban heat island effect of Xi'an,and put forward some corresponding measures to relieve the heat island effect in Xi'an according to its spatial distribution and intensity changes.[Result] Urban heat island effect was very obvious in Xi'an City,that is,surface temperature of urban areas was distinctly higher than that of surrounding suburban areas,and the high-temperature region was akin to an island with a clear boundary.As the building of Xi'a City,the areas being subjected to heat island effect expended toward the south and north especially.In addition,heat island effect of Lantian District became more prominent,so it should be paid more attention to.We suggested that some measures like improving urban vegetation coverage,reasonably planing urban buildings,reducing the discharge of artificial heat,preventing and controlling atmospheric pollution should be adopted to control urban heat island effect of Xi'an City effectively.[Conclusion] The study could offer theoretical references for the control of urban heat island effect and improvement of ecological environment in Xi'an City.