Suitability for tourism of Târgu Ocna and Cacica resorts and the salt mines on their territory

Abstract

This study analyses the bioclimate of Cacica and Târgu Ocna resorts and of the salt mines on their territory, based on the Thermo-Hygrometric Index (THI). The bioclimate was analyzed based on hourly data (air temperature and relative humidity) from 2020-2022. The annual and diurnal regime of THI in the two resorts and the two underground salt mines were investigated and periods of bioclimatic comfort were identified. Thus, at Cacica, the comfort period covers the months of June-July-August and partly September, while at Târgu Ocna the period starts one month earlier (in May) and extends by one month compared to Cacica resort (until September). It is worth noting the presence of clusters of days or hours with thermal discomfort caused by heat, especially in Târgu Ocna (in July and August). Over the course of a day, bioclimatic comfort based on the THI index is reached in Cacica, during the summer, from 6.00 a.m. and lasts until midnight. In the transition months, April, May and October, comfort is felt between 11.00 a.m and 6.00. p.m. In Târgu Ocna the bioclimatic comfort is specific to summer throughout the day, with a more pronounced discontinuity in the afternoon hours, when the discomfort caused by the heat sets in. The salt mines benefit from a thermal stability that is reflected in the slightly variable THI values and in a slight cooling discomfort. The stable atmosphere and the microclimatic uniformity give Cacica and Trotuș salt mines certain balneoclimatic qualities recommended both for tourists and patients (with respiratory diseases).

Keywords

• bioclimate
• saline therapy
• comfort
• discomfort
• thi