Monitoring O3 and PM2.5 during heat-driven high pollution days within NYC Metro Region

Abstract:

In this research project, we aim to study the spatial and temporal variation of ozone (O₃) and fines particulate matter (PM_2.5) in the New York City Metro area during the summer of 2020. We will show the observed O₃ exceedance of the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) during a heatwave period (July 18^th –22^nd, 2020). The hourly O₃ attains 100 ppb and indicate spatial/temporal variation in the NYC urban and Long Island area. We will further analyze the meteorological parameters during the period (temperature, wind direction/speed, associated transport) and emission effects on the O3 and PM_2.5 variability using the remote sensing measurements of winds and planetary-boundary-layer (PBL).

We aim to collect the data and perform a statistical analysis and draw conclusions from the study of the data. The dataset includes air pollutants data: O₃ from eight (8) ozone monitors sites and PM_2.5, from eleven (11) fine particles (PM_2.5) monitor stations as well as meteorological data from metro stations within New York State and others sources.

The air quality monitors stations for O₃ and PM_2.5 are operated by the NYSDEC and can be accessed online at http://nyaqinow.net/. The metrological data (Temp, Wind Speed/Direction, RH%, MSL Pressure, Solar Radiation, Cloud cover, Soil Temperature/Moisture) are provided by the NYS Mesonet and can be accessed at http://www.nysmesonet.org/. The monitor's stations are located within the five boroughs of New York City and the Metro Region (Long Island Corridor). The metro station Mesonet is operated by the University of Albany.

Keywords: spatial and temporal variation, ozone (O₃), PM_2.5, air quality, exceedance, monitor stations, New York City, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) US Climate Reference Network (USCRN), diurnal temperature range (DTR).