Distribution of V.Boksha’s Bioclimatic Index in Ukraine and the Development of an Automated Application for Its Determination

Abstract

In connection with global climate change and the increasing number of manifestations of weather sensitivity, the influence of weather conditions and meteorological variables on human health is attracting growing interest. Bioclimatic indices (BCIs) are indicators that serve as a qualitative tool for assessing climate comfort in a region. Based on the analysis of the dynamics of one of the BCIs – the climate pathogenicity index of V. Boksha – an assessment of climate comfort in Ukraine was carried out for 2018 – 2023 for 26 cities, and an automated application for calculating this indicator was developed. The temporal and spatial dynamics of V. Boksha’s BCI and, accordingly, the comfort of Ukraine’s climate were determined. The results were visualized in graphs, charts, and GIS-based maps. It was found that climate comfort during the year ranges from optimal in the warm period to irritating in winter, reaching acute values on certain days, the number of which varies from 5–9 (Uzhhorod, Kyiv) to 30–31 (Rivne, Sumy). Average monthly index values throughout the year range from 5 to 10 (May – August) to 25–32 (January – February). The analysis showed an increase of the comfortable period in Ukraine in 2018 – 2023 by 1.5–2 months compared to its duration in the 20th century. An automated application – an online index calculator – was developed, allowing its determination for a selected settlement. The results of the calculations of BCI, performed using the automated application, can complement daily weather forecasts to inform people about the comfort of weather conditions.