 Subjects -> METEOROLOGY (Total: 106 journals)
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- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1705: Relationship between Summer Synoptic
Circulation Patterns and Extreme Precipitation in Northern China
Authors: Shuping Li, Guolin Feng, Pengcheng Yan, Tao Su
First page: 1705
Abstract: Synoptic circulation patterns over the midlatitudes play a pivotal role in regional precipitation changes; however, the synoptic circulation patterns over eastern Asia (35°–60° N, 105°–145° E) and their effects on extreme precipitation events in the North China Plain (NCP) and northeastern China (NEC) remain unclear. The summer daily 500 hPa geopotential height anomaly fields for 1979–2021 are classified into six synoptic circulation patterns using self-organizing map (SOM) cluster analysis. The SOM1 pattern, characterized by a high-pressure ridge over the north of eastern Asia and a trough near the Korean Peninsula, yields decreased precipitation in NEC. The SOM2 pattern reveals a robust high ridge over eastern Asia, resulting in a higher incidence of regional extreme precipitation events (REPEs) of approximately 24% in the NCP. Under the SOM3 pattern, the anomalous cyclonic circulation over eastern Asia leads to above-average precipitation in the NCP. The SOM4 pattern yields the highest incidence of REPEs in NEC, with the lowest incidence of REPEs in the NCP, as the anomalous cyclonic circulation over eastern Asia moves southeastward compared to the SOM3 pattern. The SOM5 pattern presenting an anticyclone–cyclone dipole reduces precipitation in the NCP and NEC, and the anticyclonic circulation near eastern China associated with the SOM6 pattern causes above-average precipitation in the NCP. On interannual time scales, the SOM2 pattern occurrence with an increasing trend tends to induce an increasing summer precipitation trend in the NCP. The SOM3 pattern occurrence is negatively correlated with the summer precipitation in NEC. Overall, classifying the synoptic circulation patterns helps to improve precipitation forecasting and provides insights into the synoptic circulation patterns dominating the occurrences of REPEs.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-21
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121705
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1706: Numerical Evaluation of the Efficiency of
an Indoor Air Cleaner under Different Heating Conditions
Authors: Andrejs Sabanskis, Dagis Daniels Vidulejs, Jevgēnijs Teličko, Jānis Virbulis, Andris Jakovičs
First page: 1706
Abstract: For an efficient indoor air purification, it is important to know the detailed airflow distribution in the room. A series of numerical simulations are carried out for five heating regimes using an air–air heat pump, capillary mat on the ceiling, capillary mat on the walls, heated floor, and radiator. The most homogeneous temperature field is obtained for the case with the heated floor. The highest velocity is obtained for the air–air heat pump, while the lowest is obtained for the capillary mat on the ceiling. A portable air cleaner based on the prototype device is introduced into the model and its influence on the velocity and temperature distributions is calculated. Our simulations additionally consider is the transport of an infectious aerosol and its purification inside the air cleaner. The time dependency of the concentration is exponential, and the purification rate depends on the air cleaner’s orientation and heating regime. The efficiency is higher for a purifier with flow in the upwards direction compared to in a horizontal one. In the experimental part, an NaCl solution is dispersed into the air, and the efficiency of purification in the case of the air–air heat pump is evaluated by measuring the time-dependent particle concentrations. These experimental results corroborate the numerical model.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-21
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121706
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1707: High Heart Rate Variability Causes Better
Adaptation to the Impact of Geomagnetic Storms
Authors: Aleksandre Ramishvili, Ketevan Janashia, Levan Tvildiani
First page: 1707
Abstract: Our study aimed to test whether specific sensitive reactions in healthy males to the changes in geomagnetic activity (GMA) are different depending on the baseline self-regulation of the autonomic nervous system (ANS). In this study, the ANS response in the different phases of geomagnetic storms (GMSs) has been measured via the heart rate variability (HRV) using one-way ANOVA and the Bonferroni-adjusted t-test. In the case of high HRV, changes were found to indicate a significant intensification of both parts of the ANS: the sympathetic part (SP) showed increased stress levels and the parasympathetic part (PP) marked a self-regulation effort in the main and restoration phases of GMSs. In the case of low HRV, changes indicate a significant enhancement in the SP after the main phase of GMSs, with a day’s delay. GMA is a sufficient environmental factor for healthy males, causing stress reactions of the ANS in the main and restoration phases of GMSs. However, the different self-regulation of the ANS results in different dynamics in its variation depending on the individual’s character of the baseline ANS state; the optimal adaptation reactions of healthy males with baseline high HRV are achieved with decreased heart rate and increased HRV in the main phase of GMSs.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-21
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121707
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1708: Assessment of Radiological Risks due to
Indoor Radon, Thoron and Progeny, and Soil Gas Radon in Thorium-Bearing
Areas of the Centre and South Regions of Cameroon
Authors: Atangana Bingana Martin Serge, Takoukam Soh Serge Didier, Bineng Guillaume Samuel, Chutima Kranrod, Yasutaka Omori, Masahiro Hosoda, Saïdou, Shinji Tokonami
First page: 1708
Abstract: Indoor radon, thoron and thoron progeny concentrations, along with the equilibrium factor for thoron progeny and soil gas radon concentrations, have been measured to assess radiological risks in the centre and south regions of Cameroon. Indoor radon and thoron concentrations were estimated using radon–thoron discriminative detectors (RADUET), while thoron progeny monitors measured the equilibrium equivalent thoron concentration (EETC). Radon concentrations in the soil were determined using a MARKUS 10 detector. It was found that radon, thoron and thoron progeny concentrations range between 19 and 62 Bq m−3, 10 and 394 Bq m−3 and 0.05 and 21.8 Bq m−3, with geometric means of 32 Bq m−3, 98 Bq m−3 and 4.9 Bq m−3, respectively. The thoron equilibrium factor ranges between 0.007 and 0.24, with an arithmetic mean of 0.06 ± 0.03; this is higher than the world average value of 0.02 provided by the United Nations Scientific Commission on the Effects of Atomic Radiation(UNSCEAR, New York, USA). The level of the soil radon concentration ranges from 4.8 to 57.3 kBq m−3, with a geometric mean of 12.1 kBq m−3 at a depth of 0.7 m. Of the sampling points, 66% fall within normal radon risk areas, and 3% of the sampling areas are high radon risk areas exceeding 50 kBq m−3. The annual effective dose was found to be 0.03 ± 0.01 mSv for radon, 0.08 ± 0.05 mSv for thoron, 0.63 ± 0.12 mSv for radon progeny and 1.40 ± 0.84 mSv for thoron progeny. The total dose is estimated to be 2.14 mSv y−1. The mean estimated indoor excess lifetime cancer risk values due to radon, thoron, radon progeny and thoron progeny are 0.12 × 10−3, 0.31 × 10−3, 2.51 × 10−3 and 5.58 × 10−3, respectively. Thoron progeny contributed 60% to the effective dose. Thus, thoron progeny cannot be neglected in dose assessments, in order to avoid biased results in radio-epidemiological studies.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-21
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121708
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1709: Application of Portable CH4 Detector
Based on TDLAS Technology in Natural Gas Purification Plant
Authors: Yi Liu, Qianqian Shang, Lang Chen, Erxiao Wang, Xinyu Huang, Xiaobing Pang, Youhao Lu, Lei Zhou, Jue Zhou, Zhiwen Wang, Yan Lyu
First page: 1709
Abstract: Methane (CH4) is the main pollutant in oil and gas production. The detection and accounting of CH4 is an important issue in the process of greenhouse gas control and emission reduction in oil and gas industry. In this study, a portable CH4 detector based on tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS) technology was deployed. The three-dimensional distribution of CH4 in a natural gas purification plant in Sichuan was obtained through vertical unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) flight observations and ground mobile observations. According to the mass balance method, the emission of CH4 on 30 m above ground level (AGL) and 60 m AGL in this site was about 0.012 kg/s (±42% at 1σ) and 0.034 kg/s (±47% at 1σ), respectively, in one day. The vertical distribution showed that the CH4 concentration reached the maximum (2.75 ± 0.19 ppm) with height of 0 to 100 m AGL. The CH4 concentration from 100 to 300 m AGL showed a downward trend with height. Atmospheric instability at high altitude and high wind speed promoted the diffusion of CH4. The CH4 concentrations of horizontal distribution on 30 m AGL and 60 m AGL were 2.48 ± 0.11 ppm and 2.76 ± 0.34 ppm. In the observation of mobile campaigns, the connecting equipment of natural gas treatment facilities was prone to leakage, such as in valves and flanges. CH4 leakage was also detected at the torch mouth, especially when there was an open flame at the torch mouth. During the mobile movement investigation, the downwind measurement (OTM-33A) was applied to determine the overall CH4 emission rate shortly after patrolling the site. This work plays a vital role in optimizing the operation and maintenance of natural gas production stations pipe network, ensuring human safety and minimizing greenhouse gas emissions.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-21
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121709
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1710: The Association between Compound Hot
Extremes and Mortality Risk in Shandong Province, China: A Time-Series
Analysis
Authors: Yue Xing, Danru Liu, Kejia Hu, Zilong Lu, Jie Chu, Xiaohui Xu, Peng Lu, Haitao Wang, Yanwen Cao, Qi Zhao, Lovel Fornah, Xiaolei Guo, Jixiang Ma, Wei Ma
First page: 1710
Abstract: Background: The occurrence of compound hot extreme (CHE) events in China is increasingly frequent. This study aimed to investigate the association between CHEs and all-cause mortality in Shandong Province and to estimate the attributable excess deaths. Methods: We collected daily data on weather, air pollution, and all-cause mortality at the subdistrict level in Shandong Province from 2013 to 2018. A CHE was defined as both daily maximum and minimum temperatures being higher than their historical 90th percentiles during 2013–2018 hot seasons. A case time-series analysis with a distributed lagged non-linear model was applied to analyze the subdistrict-specific association between different hot extremes and mortality risk, which were then pooled at the province level using meta-analysis. Results: Hot nights (RR = 1.44, 95%CI: 1.35–1.53) and CHEs (RR = 1.77, 95%CI: 1.64–1.90) were significantly associated with an increased mortality risk. CHEs had a greater effect for females (RR = 1.99, 95%CI: 1.81–2.19) and the elderly (>74 years) (RR = 2.14, 95%CI: 1.93–2.38) than their counterparts, respectively. Cardiovascular and respiratory deaths were more susceptible to CHEs than other deaths. Each year, 4888 (95%CI: 4133–5811) excess deaths in Shandong Province were attributable to CHEs, accounting for 2.60% (95%CI: 2.20–3.10%) of all-cause deaths and equating to 50 (95%CI: 42–58) deaths per 1,000,000 residents. The CHE-related mortality burden varied across subdistricts, with the highest occurring in the southeastern area and the lowest occurring in the northeastern and southwestern regions. Conclusion: CHEs and hot nights were substantially associated with excess deaths in Shandong Province, especially for females, the elderly, and residents living in the southeastern area. Our findings may facilitate the development of a heat alert warning system and preventive measures for vulnerable populations.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-21
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121710
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1711: Land-Use Regression Analysis of Summer
Tropospheric Ozone Concentrations in Ireland
Authors: Keelan McHugh, Thomas Cummins, Julian Aherne
First page: 1711
Abstract: Tropospheric ozone is a powerful oxidant that can damage living organisms; it is widely monitored, as air concentrations have more than doubled since the Industrial Revolution. However, in general air quality monitoring stations are limited spatially to large urban centres; accordingly, accurate prediction of concentrations outside of cities is important for protecting human and plant health. Land-use regression has been successfully used for modelling air pollutant concentrations by establishing a relationship between observed concentrations and landscape features representing sources and sinks. In this study, we developed a land-use regression model that explained 68% of the variance of summer average ozone concentrations in the Republic of Ireland. Ozone was measured at 14 active and 20 passive monitoring sites; air concentrations varied spatially, with the highest ozone measured in rural upland (64.5 µg/m3) and Atlantic coastal (50.2–60.5 µg/m3) sites and the lowest generally in urban centres (38.9–45.7 µg/m3). A total of 74 land-use predictor variables were tested, and their inclusion in the model was based on their impact on the coefficient of determination (R2). The final model included variables linked primarily to deposition processes and included “forest woodland and scrub area” and “distance to coast”. The meteorological variable “rain” and an indicator for NOx emissions “distance to EPA Integrated Pollution Control facilities” were also included in the final model. Our results demonstrate the potential effectiveness of land-use regression modelling in predicting ozone concentrations, at a scale relevant for ecosystem protection.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-21
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121711
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1712: Seasonality of Biophysical Parameters in
Extreme Years of Precipitation in Pernambuco: Relations, Regionalities,
and Variability
Authors: Alan Cézar Bezerra, Jhon Lennon Bezerra da Silva, Douglas Alberto de Oliveira Silva, Cristina Rodrigues Nascimento, Eberson Pessoa Ribeiro, Josiclêda Domiciano Galvincio, Marcos Vinícius da Silva, Henrique Fonseca Elias de Oliveira, Márcio Mesquita, José Francisco de Oliveira-Júnior, Alexsandro Claudio dos Santos Almeida, Pabrício Marcos Oliveira Lopes, Geber Barbosa de Albuquerque Moura
First page: 1712
Abstract: This study analyzed the seasonality of biophysical parameters in the extreme years of precipitation and the relationship with the monthly precipitation of the state of Pernambuco at the regional level (Pernambuco) and homogeneous precipitation zones: zone 1—semiarid, zone 2—transition and zone 3—coastal. For this, the biophysical parameters at the monthly level in the extreme years, 2004 (wet) and 2012 (dry) were related to precipitation data of 45 rainfall stations. Using the Google Earth Engine platform, we calculate the biophysical parameters with MODIS products: Albedo, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI), Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI), Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) and surface temperature (ST). Considering the most critical period, between September and December, of a wet year (2004) with a dry year (2012), there is an average reduction of 14% of vegetation indices (NDVI, EVI and SAVI), a 60% reduction in NDWI, an increase of 4% in albedo and 3% in surface temperature. For monitoring the water conditions of the state of Pernambuco, the most appropriate biophysical parameter is the NDWI index and surface temperature. In addition to NDWI, it is recommended to use EVI for semiarid areas (zone 1) and ST for coastal areas (Zones 2 and 3).
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-21
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121712
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1713: Lightning Nowcasting Using Solely
Lightning Data
Authors: Ehsan Mansouri, Amirhosein Mostajabi, Chong Tong, Marcos Rubinstein, Farhad Rachidi
First page: 1713
Abstract: Lightning is directly or indirectly responsible for significant human casualties and property damage worldwide. A timely prediction of its occurrence can enable authorities and the public to take necessary precautionary actions resulting in diminishing the potential hazards caused by lightning. In this paper, based on the assumption that atmospheric phenomena behave in a continuous manner, we present a model based on residual U-nets where the network architecture leverages this inductive bias by combining information passing directly from the input to the output with the necessary required changes to the former, predicted by a neural network. Our model is trained solely on lightning data from geostationary weather satellites and can be used to predict the occurrence of future lightning. Our model has the advantage of not relying on numerical weather models, which are inherently slow due to their sequential nature, enabling it to be used for near-future prediction (nowcasting). Moreover, our model has similar performance compared to other machine learning based lightning predictors in the literature while using significantly less amount of data for training, limited to lightning data. Our model, which is trained for four different lead times of 15, 30, 45, and 60 min, outperforms the traditional persistence baseline by 4%, 12%, and 22% for lead times of 30, 45, and 60 min, respectively, and has comparable accuracy for 15 min lead time.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-21
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121713
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1714: Viability of Artificial Rain for Air
Pollution Control: Insights from Natural Rains and Roadside Sprinkling
Authors: Noor Haleem, Pradeep Kumar, Seyit Uguz, Yousuf Jamal, John McMaine, Xufei Yang
First page: 1714
Abstract: Artificial rain, a technology primarily used for drought relief, has recently been used for combating regional air pollution. However, there are limited available measurement data to confirm the effectiveness of this control practice. In this study, we summarize control theories and indirect but relevant observations/findings, including air pollutant reduction after natural rain events and roadside sprinkling. A brief review of artificial rain basics is also provided. Our work shows that artificial rain appears to be a promising management strategy for air pollution control. However, field measurements are needed to further assess the cost-effectiveness of the practice, as well as the other benefits or challenges it may create.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-21
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121714
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1715: City-Scale Aerosol Loading Changes in the
Authors: Ruixin Wang, Hongke Cai
First page: 1715
Abstract: Long-term high-resolution monitoring of aerosol optical depth (AOD) is necessary to understand air pollution problems and climate change at regional to urban scales. Based on the 1 km AOD dataset retrieved by the MODIS Multi-Angle Implementation of Atmospheric Correction algorithm (MAIAC), the spatial-temporal evolutionary trends of AOD in the Sichuan Basin (SCB), Southwest China, and its 17 subordinate cities were analyzed from 2001 to 2020. In the past 20 years, the annual average AOD in SCB gradually decreased from south to north. The highest AOD of SCB in spring was 0.62, followed by an average AOD value of 0.60 in winter. At the city scale, Zigong, Neijiang, and Ziyang were identified as the three most polluted cities within the SCB. The average AOD in the SCB increased to 0.68 and 0.69 in February and March, respectively, and significantly decreased to 0.41 and 0.43 in June and July, respectively. The interannual AOD in the SCB presented an increasing trend from 2001 to 2010, with a range of 0.50 to 0.70, whereas it showed a decreasing trend from 2011 to 2020, with a range of 0.68 to 0.35. In spring, the annual average AOD at the district level showed significant high values from 2005 to 2012. In winter, the interannual AOD increased significantly, with high values concentrated in 2008, 2010, 2011, and 2013. The occurrence frequency of AOD in the SCB was mainly distributed between 0.2~0.5 and 1.5. There also was an increasing trend of AOD in the SCB from 2001 to 2008 and a decreasing trend from 2009 to 2020. The results of this study hold significance for further understanding the climatic characteristics and environmental effects of regional atmospheric aerosols.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-21
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121715
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1716: Assessing the Impact of Spatiotemporal
Land Cover Changes on the Urban Heat Islands in Developing Cities with
Landsat Data: A Case Study in Zhanjiang
Authors: Yutian Hu, Hongye Li, Muhammad Amir Siddique, Dongyun Liu
First page: 1716
Abstract: Land cover changes (LCCs) due to urbanization cause urban heat islands (UHIs), significantly affecting land surface temperature (LST) through spatiotemporal changes in compositions, parameters, and patterns. Land cover and LST have been studied in various cities; however, indicative research into heterogeneous LCC’s impact on LST in less-developed cities remains incomplete. This study analyzed new Landsat images of Zhanjiang, taken from 2004 to 2022, to determine the impact of three LCC indicators (compositions, parameters, and patterns) on LSTs. The urban thermal field variance index (UTFVI) was used to describe the distribution and variation in LST. We also quantified the cooling or warming benefits of various LCCs. The results indicate that the average temperature in the land urban heat island (SUHI) area rose to 30.6 °C. The average temperature of the SUHI was 3.32 °C higher than that of the non-SUHI area, showing the characteristic of shifting to counties and multi-core development. The LST increases by 0.37–0.67 °C with an increase of 0.1 in the normalized difference building index (NDBI), which is greater than the cooling benefit of the normalized difference of vegetation index (NDVI). The impact of landscape pattern indices on impervious surfaces and water is higher than that on vegetation and cropland, with a rising influence on impervious surfaces and a decreasing impact on water. The predominant cooling patches are vegetation and water, while large areas of impervious surface and cropland aggravate UHIs for industrial and agricultural activities. These findings are intended to guide future urban layouts and planning in less-developed cities, with thermal climate mitigation as a guiding principle.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-22
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121716
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1717: Twenty-Year Spatiotemporal Variations of
TWS over Mainland China Observed by GRACE and GRACE Follow-On Satellites
Authors: Wei Chen, Yuhao Xiong, Min Zhong, Zihan Yang, C. K. Shum, Wenhao Li, Lei Liang, Quanguo Li
First page: 1717
Abstract: Terrestrial water storage (TWS) is a pivotal component of the global water cycle, profoundly impacting water resource management, hazard monitoring, and agriculture production. The Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) and its successor, the GRACE Follow-On (GFO), have furnished comprehensive monthly TWS data since April 2002. However, there are 35 months of missing data over the entire GRACE/GFO observational period. To address this gap, we developed an operational approach utilizing singular spectrum analysis and principal component analysis (SSA-PCA) to fill these missing data over mainland China. The algorithm was demonstrated with good performance in the Southwestern River Basin (SWB, correlation coefficient, CC: 0.71, RMSE: 6.27 cm), Yangtze River Basin (YTB, CC: 0.67, RMSE: 3.52 cm), and Songhua River Basin (SRB, CC: 0.66, RMSE: 7.63 cm). Leveraging two decades of continuous time-variable gravity data, we investigated the spatiotemporal variations in TWS across ten major Chinese basins. According to the results of GRACE/GFO, mainland China experienced an average annual TWS decline of 0.32 ± 0.06 cm, with the groundwater storage (GWS) decreasing by 0.54 ± 0.10 cm/yr. The most significant GWS depletion occurred in the Haihe River Basin (HRB) at −2.07 ± 0.10 cm/yr, significantly substantial (~1 cm/yr) depletions occurred in the Yellow River Basin (YRB), SRB, Huaihe River Basin (HHB), Liao-Luan River Basin (LRB), and Southwest River Basin (SWB), and moderate losses were recorded in the Northwest Basin (NWB, −0.34 ± 0.03 cm/yr) and Southeast River Basin (SEB, −0.24 ± 0.10 cm/yr). Furthermore, we identified that interannual TWS variations in ten basins of China were primarily driven by soil moisture water storage (SMS) anomalies, exhibiting consistently and relatively high correlations (CC > 0.60) and low root-mean-square errors (RMSE < 5 cm). Lastly, through the integration of GRACE/GFO and Global Land Data Assimilation System (GLDAS) data, we unraveled the contrasting water storage patterns between northern and southern China. Southern China experienced drought conditions, while northern China faced flooding during the 2020–2023 La Niña event, with the inverse pattern observed during the 2014–2016 El Niño event. This study fills in the missing data and quantifies water storage variations within mainland China, contributing to a deeper insight into climate change and its consequences on water resource management.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-22
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121717
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1718: Assessment of the Spatiotemporal Changes
in the Extreme Precipitation Climate Indices over the Chungcheong Region
of South Korea during 1973–2020
Authors: Hyungon Cho, Bashir Adelodun, Hyo-Jeong Kim, Gwangseob Kim
First page: 1718
Abstract: This study analyzed the changes and trends in twelve extreme precipitation-based climate indices obtained using daily data from 10 synoptic stations in the Chungcheong region of South Korea during the 1973–2020 period. The climate indices were used to assess the trends in the extreme precipitation characteristics of duration, frequency, and intensity using the innovative trend analysis (ITA) method. The results of the ITA were further compared with two other non-parametric test methods such as Mann–Kendall (MK) and Spearman’s rho (SR). The results showed that most stations exhibited significant increasing trends in all the investigated climate indices at a 95% confidence level as indicated by the ITA method, with only a few stations indicating significant decreasing trends in R95p, R99p, Rx3day, and Rx5day. The sub-trend analysis further revealed the dominance of neutral behavior around the low-value cluster, especially for the extreme precipitation duration. At the same time, increasing trends dominate the high-value cluster at most stations. Meanwhile, only R10mm, R99p, and R95p exhibited monotonic trends in the Boeun and Seosan stations, respectively. Further, the ITA exhibited superior performance over the MK and SR methods by indicating the presence of more significant trends in the climate indices at most stations. The distribution of the extreme precipitation indices for duration, frequency, and intensity indicate the pronounced risk of flood conditions around the north–central and some parts of southern regions, while the western region indicates a potential drought risk, which could greatly impact the water resources and consequently agricultural activities in the study area. The results of this study provide essential information for addressing the climate-related problems of water resource management and agriculture in the study area and other related climatic regions.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-22
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121718
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1719: Spatiotemporal Characteristics of
Hourly-Scale Extreme Precipitation in the Sichuan Basin and Its Impact on
Normalized Difference Vegetation Index Values
Authors: Ying Xiang, Zhongliang Li, Yixiao Wu, Keqing Wang, Jie Yang
First page: 1719
Abstract: This study harnesses ground observation data collected between 1980 and 2021 and ERA5 hourly data to thoroughly implement trend and correlation analysis techniques to explore the spatiotemporal dynamic characteristics of daily and hourly extreme precipitation in the Sichuan Basin. The investigation delineates these characteristics and probes into the potential triggers of extreme hourly rainstorms. The findings unveil the following: (1) A general increase in extreme rainfall volume, contribution rate, intensity, and dispersion, along with a decline in frequency and proportion of rainstorm areas, indicating the concentration of daily-scale severe rainstorms. The basin’s edge receives more precipitation than the bottom, exhibiting latitudinal variations. (2) The northernmost mountainous regions have less frequent, less intense rainstorms influenced by terrain, whereas the northeastern region experiences more frequent, dispersed rainstorms. (3) Extreme hourly rainstorms predominantly occur at night, with rainfall amount, intensity, and frequency declining at 21:00 compared to 19:00. (4) Summer experiences the highest risk of extreme rainstorms, with annual and monthly datasets displaying a rising trend in the frequency, dispersion, and intensity of intense hourly rainstorms. (5) Peak values of extreme hourly rainstorms are growing, with two distinct periods for their frequency: 1:00–9:00 and 10:00–24:00, with an increase in the former and a decrease in the latter. (6) Normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) values ascend from southwest to northeast within the basin on a ten-day scale, correlating with the distribution of hourly extreme precipitation.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-22
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121719
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1720: Evaluation of an Alternative Functional
Form to Fit the Lorenz Curve for the Concentration Index Calculation
Authors: Gerardo Núñez-González, Domingo Velázquez-Pérez, Francisco Javier Pelayo-Cortés
First page: 1720
Abstract: Precipitation concentration indices have become a popular tool for analyzing the structure of daily precipitation amounts. Among the existing indices, the concentration index (CI) is widely used. In calculating the CI, an important aspect is adjusting the Lorenz curve based on the observed precipitation data. Usually, the fit has been carried out with equations of the type y = axebx. However, in some research work, it has been observed that sometimes, the fit obtained only partially describes the behavior of the data. Thus, this work evaluated an alternative functional form to fit the Lorenz curve. For this, daily precipitation data from 44 climatological stations in Mexico were used to assess two equations for adjusting the Lorenz curve. Once the fit was made, the goodness of fit was evaluated to determine which of the functional forms best described the behavior of the data. Results showed that the two functional forms produced similar results for low precipitation concentrations. However, when the concentration increased, the alternative functional form generated results following the behavior of the observations. Thus, it is recommended to use the alternative functional form to avoid overestimations of the concentration of daily precipitation in areas where it is known that a high concentration occurs.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-23
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121720
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1721: Risk Assessment of Freezing–Thawing
Hazards in the Daxing’anling Forest Region
Authors: Kezheng Chen, Shuai Huang
First page: 1721
Abstract: The Daxing’anling forest region represents a crucial forestry hub in China and confronts some of the nation’s most severe freezing–thawing hazards. This study delved into the temporal trends and spatial distributions of various parameters related to freezing and thawing, including air temperature, ground surface temperature, freezing index, thawing index, and freezing–thawing frequency. Furthermore, this study assessed and delineated freezing–thawing hazards within the research area. The findings revealed a rapid increase in air temperature and ground surface temperature within the Daxing’anling forest region yet a lower rate of increase in ground surface temperature compared to Northeast China. Latitude had the strongest influence on mean annual air temperature, mean annual ground surface temperature, air freezing index, air thawing index, ground surface freezing index, ground surface thawing index, air freezing–thawing frequency, and ground surface freezing–thawing frequency, followed by longitude and elevation. Overall, freezing index, and air freezing–thawing frequency increased from south to north, whereas mean annual air temperature, mean annual ground surface temperature, air thawing index, ground surface thawing index, and ground surface freezing–thawing frequency decreased from south to north. The assessment outcomes underscore the importance of closely monitoring freezing–thawing hazards in regions north of the 50th parallel.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-23
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121721
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1722: Impacts of Radar Data Assimilation on the
Forecast of “12.8” Extreme Rainstorm in Central China (2021)
Authors: Zhixin He, Jinyin Ye, Zhijia Li, Chunze Lin, Lixin Song
First page: 1722
Abstract: Dual-polarization radar data are useful for numerical models to improve precipitation forecasts. For an extremely heavy precipitation event that occurred in Central China on 11 August 2021, the hydrometeor concentration and water vapor content used in the initial field of the Weather Research and Forecasting (version 4.1) model are retrieved by the statistical relationship of relative humidity with dual-polarization radar reflectivity in Suizhou City of Central China. Three experiments are conducted, and the simulation results are compared after assimilating the radar data. The results indicate that the multiple factors contributing to this extreme heavy precipitation event included the divergence of upper-level airflows, the middle- and low-level low vortex/shear, the easterly jet stream in front of the low vortex, and the continuous intrusion of cold air on the ground. In addition, with the retrieval of the hydrometeor concentration and water vapor content, the composite reflectivity forecast results are more similar to the observations. Also, the location and intensity of the short-term extremely heavy precipitation event are less different from the observations. In addition, by cyclically adjusting the hydrometeor concentration and water vapor content in the initial field, we can obtain better forecasts of the reflectivity and short-term extremely heavy precipitation, and this improvement can be maintained for approximately 3 h.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-23
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121722
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1723: MAFormer: A New Method for Radar
Reflectivity Reconstructing using Satellite Data
Authors: Kuoyin Wang, Yan Huang, Tingzhao Yu, Yu Chen, Zhimin Li, Qiuming Kuang
First page: 1723
Abstract: Radar reflectivity plays a crucial role in detecting heavy rainfall and is an important tool for meteorological analysis. However, the coverage of a single radar is limited, leading to the use of satellite data as a complementary source. Consequently, how to bridge the gap between radar and satellite data has become a growing research focus. In this paper, we present MAFormer, a novel model for reconstructing radar reflectivity using satellite data within the Transformer framework. MAFormer consists of two modules: the Axial Local Attention Module and the Mixup Global Attention Module, which extract both local saliency and global similarity. Quantitative and qualitative experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed method. Specifically, the MAFormer model exhibits notable advancements when compared to state-of-the-art deep learning techniques. It demonstrates an improvement ranging from 0.01 to 0.05 in terms of the Heidke skill score, indicating its superior performance. Additionally, MAFormer effectively mitigates false alarm rates by approximately 0.016 to 0.04, which further highlights its enhanced accuracy and reliability.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-23
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121723
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1724: Improving the Model Performance of the
Ecosystem Carbon Cycle by Integrating Soil Erosion–Related Processes
Authors: Jinliang Zhang, Chao Zhang, Wensi Ma, Wei Wang, Haofei Li
First page: 1724
Abstract: Soil erosion is a key factor in soil quality degradation and carbon balance in arid ecosystems. However, many models ignore the soil erosion process in arid regions, which may lead to limits in our understanding of ecosystem processes in arid regions. In this study, we added the soil erosion process according to field observed data of soil hydrothermal regimes and carbon flux. We validated this coupling version of IBIS (Integrated Biosphere Simulator) and RUSLE (RU–IBIS) by examining four different vegetation types and the carbon budget in the arid region on the Loess Plateau (LP). Our results indicated that the coupling model (RU–IBIS) produced more reliable simulations of the soil water content (with the r from 0.23–0.90 to 0.71–0.97) and evaporation (ET) (the average r was 0.76) and significantly improved the simulation of the leaf area index (LAI) (the average r was 0.95) and net primary production (NPP) (the average r was 0.95). We also conducted sensitivity experiments to determine how soil texture and aerodynamic roughness (Z0m) affect the soil water content. Moreover, it was revealed that specific leaf area (SLA) plays a key role in the simulation of NPP and NEE. Our study suggests that the coupled soil erosion process and parameterization can effectively improve the performance of IBIS in arid regions. These results need to be considered in future Earth system models.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-23
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121724
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1725: Special Issue Editorial: Hydroclimate in
a Changing World: Recent Trends, Current Progress and Future Directions
Authors: Haibo Liu
First page: 1725
Abstract: The sixth report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has confirmed that human-induced climate change is already affecting many weather and climate extremes in every region across the globe [...]
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-24
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121725
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1726: Evaluation of Rain Estimates from Several
Ground-Based Radar Networks and Satellite Products for Two Cases Observed
over France in 2022
Authors: Antoine Causse, Céline Planche, Emmanuel Buisson, Jean-Luc Baray
First page: 1726
Abstract: The recent development of satellite products for observing precipitation based on different technologies (microwaves, infrared, etc.) allows for near-real-time meteorological studies. The purpose of this article is to evaluate 11 satellite products (GHE, PDIR, IMERG-Early v6, IMERG-Late v6, CMORPH v0.x, CMORPH-RT v0.x, GSMaP-NRT v7, GSMaP-NRT-GC v7, GSMaP-NOW v7, GSMaP-NOW-GC v7, and DATABOURG) currently available and compare them to 2 ground-based radar networks (PANTHERE and OPERA) and the French rain-gauge network RADOME. Two case studies of intense precipitation over France (22 to 25 April 2022 and 24 to 29 June 2022) were selected. The radar estimations are closer to the RADOME observations than the satellite-based estimations, which tend to globally underestimate the precipitation amounts over the areas of interest while OPERA tends to strongly overestimate precipitation amounts during the June case study. The PANTHERE radar product and the carrier-to-noise product DATABOURG shows promising results. Near-real-time satellite products tend to have closer precipitation amounts to the reference dataset than satellite products with a shorter latency. The use of these datasets for nowcasting developments is plausible but further analyses must be conducted beforehand.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-24
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121726
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1727: A Refined Zenith Tropospheric Delay Model
Based on a Generalized Regression Neural Network and the GPT3 Model in
Europe
Authors: Min Wei, Xuexiang Yu, Fuyang Ke, Xiangxiang He, Keli Xu
First page: 1727
Abstract: An accurate model of the Zenith Tropospheric Delay (ZTD) plays a crucial role in Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) precise positioning, water vapor retrieval, and meteorological research. Current empirical models (such as the GPT3 model) can only reflect the approximate change trend of ZTD but cannot accurately reflect nonlinear changes such as rapid fluctuations in ZTD. In recent years, the application of machine learning methods in the modeling and prediction of ZTD has gained prominence, yielding commendable results. Utilizing the ZTD products from 53 International GNSS Service (IGS) stations in Europe during the year 2021 as a foundational dataset, a Generalized Regression Neural Network (GRNN) is employed to model IGS ZTD while considering spatiotemporal factors and its association with GPT3 ZTD. This endeavor culminates in the development of a refined GRNN model. To verify the performance of the model, the prediction results are compared with two other ZTD values. One is obtained based on the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts Reanalysis 5 (ERA5) data, and the other is obtained by the GPT3 model. The results show that the bias of the GRNN refined model is almost 0 mm, and the average Root-Mean-Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Error (MAE) are 18.33 mm and 14.08 mm, respectively. Compared with ERA5 ZTD and GPT3 ZTD, the RMSE of GRNN ZTD has decreased by 19.5% and 63.4%, respectively, and the MAE of GRNN ZTD has decreased by 24.8% and 67.1%. Compared with the other two models, the GRNN refined model has better performance in reflecting the rapid fluctuations of ZTD. In addition, also discussed is the impact of spatial factors and time factors on modeling. The findings indicate that modeling accuracy within the central region of the modeling area surpasses that at the periphery by approximately 17.8%. The period from June to October is associated with the lowest accuracy, whereas the optimal accuracy is typically observed from January to April. The most substantial differences in accuracy were observed at station OP71 (Paris, France), with the highest accuracy recorded (9.51 mm) in April and the lowest (24.00 mm) in September.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-24
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121727
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1728: Design and Verification of Assessment
Tool of Shortwave Communication Interference Impact Area
Authors: Guojin He, Shengyun Ji, Rongjun Wu, Qiao Yu, Yanan Liu, Yafei Shi, Na Li
First page: 1728
Abstract: In the field of electronic communication warfare, accurately predicting the range and intensity of shortwave interference signals presents a significant challenge due to the complex interplay between the ionospheric parameters and the electromagnetic environment. To address this challenge, we designed a novel tool to assess the interference impact area of shortwave interference signals in a dynamically changing ionospheric environment. Considering sophisticated ionospheric radio wave propagation models and innovative spatial grid methods, this tool finishes the comprehensive spatial distribution of the interference impact area and delivers grid-based insights into the interference intensity. Furthermore, the test verification of the tool demonstrated a mean error of 8.42 dB between the measured and simulated results, underscoring the efficacy and reliability of this tool. This pioneering work is poised to make substantial contributions to the field of communication electronic warfare and holds significant promise for guiding the development of interference countermeasures.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-24
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121728
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1729: Evaluation of Filtration Efficiency of
Various Filter Media in Addressing Wildfire Smoke in Indoor Environments:
Importance of Particle Size and Composition
Authors: Tanya Shirman, Elijah Shirman, Sissi Liu
First page: 1729
Abstract: Sub-micron particles are ubiquitous in the indoor environment, especially during wildfire smoke episodes, and have a higher impact on human health than larger particles. Conventional fibrous air filters installed in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems play an important role in controlling indoor air quality by removing various air pollutants, including particulate matter (PM). However, it is evident that the removal efficiency of wildfire smoke PM and its effect on filter performance is significantly under-studied. This study delves into the size-specific removal efficiency of pine needle smoke, a representative of wildfire smoke and emissions. We test an array of filter media with minimum efficiency reporting values (MERV) spanning 11–15. Both size-resolved particle number concentrations and mass concentrations were measured using an Optical Particle Sizer (OPS, TSI, Inc.) and a Scanning Mobility Particle Sizer (SMPS, TSI, Inc.). Furthermore, we characterize the filter media morphology and smoke particles deposited on filter fibers using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) to gain insights into the interaction dynamics of these particles. Our findings add to the comprehension of the relationship between MERV designations and smoke removal efficiency. Such insight can inform standards and guidelines and equip decision-makers with the knowledge needed to initiate measures for mitigating the impact of air pollution, specifically on the indoor environment.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-24
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121729
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1730: Diagnosis of Warm-Sector Heavy Rainfall
with Warm Shear in the Yangtze–Huaihe Coastal Areas from the
Perspective of Moist Static Energy
Authors: Yiping Yu, Ling Zhang
First page: 1730
Abstract: Based on the Climate Precipitation Center Morphing (CMORPH) precipitation data and the fifth-generation ECMWF reanalysis (ERA5) data, moist static energy (MSE) diagnosis for 14 cases of southerly warm-sector heavy rainfall with warm shear (WSWR) along the Yangtze-Huaihe coastal area (YHCA) was conducted. The results indicate that the vertically integrated MSE tendency peaks before the precipitation reaches its maximum. This suggests a rapid MSE accumulation leading up to precipitation onset, with moist enthalpy advection dominantly influencing this increase. The vertical advection of MSE is negative, suggesting that upward motions and rainfall play a crucial role in consuming MSE. Vertical integrated MSE budget analysis for the nine cases of nocturnal rain shows that moist enthalpy advection was the primary contributor, driven mainly by meridional latent energy advection. Scale analysis shows that the combination of meridional disturbance wind and the mean specific humidity field results in pronounced meridional latent energy advection. For the five cases of non-nocturnal rain, the net energy flux was dominant before the onset of precipitation, primarily driven by clear-sky net shortwave radiation (SWCS). The meridional internal energy advection also makes a substantial contribution. The scale analysis indicates that the combined effects of the meridional disturbance wind and the average temperature field lead to significant meridional internal energy advection.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-24
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121730
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1731: Reanalyzing Jupiter ISO/SWS Data through
a More Recent Atmospheric Model
Authors: José Ribeiro, Pedro Machado, Santiago Pérez-Hoyos, João A. Dias, Patrick Irwin
First page: 1731
Abstract: The study of isotopic ratios in planetary atmospheres gives an insight into the formation history and evolution of these objects. The more we can constrain these ratios, the better we can understand the history and future of our solar system. To help in this endeavour, we used Infrared Space Observatory Short Wavelength Spectrometer (ISO/SWS) Jupiter observations in the 793–1500 cm−1 region together with the Nonlinear Optimal Estimator for MultivariatE Spectral analySIS (NEMESIS) radiative transfer suite to retrieve the temperature–pressure profile and the chemical abundances for various chemical species. We also used the 1500–2499 cm−1 region to determine the cloud and aerosol structure of the upper troposphere. We obtained a best-fit simulated spectrum with χ2/N=0.47 for the 793–1500 cm−1 region and χ2/N=0.71 for the 1500–2499 cm−1 region. From the retrieved methane abundances, we obtained, within a 1σ uncertainty, a 12C/13C ratio of 84 ± 27 and a D/H ratio of (3.5 ± 0.6) × 10−5, and these ratios are consistent with other published results from the literature.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-24
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121731
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1732: Wind Energy Resources at Antarctic
Stations Based on ERA5
Authors: Kaishan Wang, Di Wu, Jinping Wu, Shuang Li, Xinye Zhao, Chongwei Zheng, Yue Yu, Kai Wu
First page: 1732
Abstract: The harsh scientific research environment of Antarctic stations demands a reliable energy supply; however, traditional methods not only pose a challenge in supply but also harm the environment. Antarctic energy supply has become a new choice for energy development in Antarctica due to its abundant wind energy resources. Using ERA5 10 m wind field reanalysis data, we compared and analyzed the correlation (r) and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) between some observation stations and reanalysis data, with correlations above 0.67 and root mean square error below 2.3. This indicates that the accuracy of the ERA5 data is suitable for resource assessment at stations in Antarctica. We assessed the wind energy potential of the Great Wall, Zhongshan, Kunlun and Taishan Stations. The results show that the annual distribution and long-term trend of wind energy at Taishan Station are the best, followed by the Great Wall, Zhongshan and Kunlun Stations. Taishan Station has stable wind direction and abundant wind energy, the average wind power density is 800 W/m2, with an annual growth trend of 2.02 W/m2·yr−1. The effective wind speed occurrence and energy level occurrence are generally above 90% and the coefficient of variation is generally below 0.8. The dominant direction of wind energy is northeast and the wind direction is stable, which is conducive to the development and utilization of wind energy.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-25
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121732
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1733: Wavelet Analysis of Ozone Driving Factors
Based on ~20 Years of Ozonesonde Measurements in Beijing
Authors: Yunshu Zeng, Jinqiang Zhang, Yajuan Li, Sichang Liu, Hongbin Chen
First page: 1733
Abstract: A long-term vertical ozone observational dataset has been provided during 2001–2019 by ozonesonde measurements in Beijing on the North China Plain. Previous studies using this dataset primarily focused on the vertical characteristics of climatological ozone and its variation; however, the driving factors of ozone variation have not been well discussed. In this study, by applying the wavelet analysis method (including continuous wavelet transform and cross wavelet) and sliding correlation coefficients to ~20 years of ozonesonde measurements collected in Beijing, we analyzed the dominant modes of ozone column variability within three height ranges over Beijing (total column ozone: TOT; stratospheric column ozone: SCO; and tropospheric column ozone: TCO). Moreover, we also preliminarily discussed the relationship between these three ozone columns and the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), Quasi-biennial Oscillation (QBO), and 11-year solar activity cycle. The results revealed that the ozone columns within the three height ranges predominantly adhered to interannual variability patterns, and the short-term variabilities in TOT and SCO may have been related to eruptive volcanic activity. In comparison to the TOT and SCO, the TCO was more susceptible to the forcing influences of high-frequency factors such as pollutant transport. Similar to the results in other mid-latitude regions, strong ENSO and QBO signals were revealed in the interannual ozone column variability over Beijing. The TOT and SCO showed positive anomalous responses to ENSO warm-phase events, and the peak of the ENSO warm phase led the winter peaks of the TOT and SCO by approximately 3–6 months. During the strong cold–warm transition phase in 2009–2012, the TOT and SCO showed a significant positive correlation with the ENSO index. The strong seasonality of the meridional circulation process driven by the QBO led to a significant positive correlation between the QBO index and the TOT and SCO in the interannual cycle, except for two periods of abnormal QBO fluctuations in 2010–2012 and 2015–2017, whereas the TCO showed a time-lagged correlation of approximately 3 months in the annual cycle relative to the QBO due to the influence of the thermodynamic tropopause. In addition, analysis of the F10.7 index and the ozone columns revealed that the ozone columns over Beijing exhibited lagged responses to the peaks of sunspot activity, and there was no obvious correlation between ozone columns and 11-year solar activity cycle. Given the complex driving mechanism of the climatic factors on local ozone variability, the preliminary results obtained in this study still require further validation using longer time series of observational data and the combination of chemical models and more auxiliary data.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-25
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121733
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1734: Optimization of a Do-It-Yourself Air
Cleaner Design to Reduce Residential Air Pollution Exposure for a
Community Experiencing Environmental Injustices
Authors: Sumit Sankhyan, Nicholas Clements, Allison Heckman, Aniya K. Hollo, Dulce Gonzalez-Beltran, Jonathan Aumann, Cora Morency, Luke Leiden, Shelly L. Miller
First page: 1734
Abstract: The large-scale deployment of Do-it-yourself (DIY) air cleaners, especially in communities that historically bear the brunt of air pollution exposure-related injustices, provides communities a cost-effective option to reduce personal indoor exposure to particulate matter. In this study, we developed nine air cleaner prototypes, altering filter depth and the number and type of filters, and compared their PM2.5 removal effectiveness and maintenance-related parameters prior to deployment in North Denver, Colorado homes. Prototypes containing multiple high efficiency particulate air filters with a minimum reporting value of 13 (MERV13) had higher clean air delivery rates (CADR, >300 m3 h−1) compared to prototypes using a single filter (100–200 m3 h−1), but single-filter designs had comparable values of CADR normalized by initial and annual operating costs. Based on performance, cost, build time, and feedback from the community regarding concerns related to volatile organic compound exposure, the selected prototype (P9) used a combination of an activated carbon filter and single MERV13 filter with a 10.16 cm (4-inch) depth. Following this assessment, 120 of the selected air cleaner prototypes were built and deployed in homes around the communities in North Denver for two separate cohorts; feedback regarding their usage over the course of the deployment showed that in addition to the increased noise levels perceived by the participants, factors such as cold air flow from the air cleaner impacting the thermal comfort and aesthetics of the design reduced their usage time in homes. Future designs of DIY air cleaners could incorporate this feedback to help design improved features such as quieter air cleaners and real-time pollutant monitoring feedback to prompt users to keep them operational at all times of the day.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-25
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121734
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1735: Mesoscale Characteristics of
Exceptionally Heavy Rainfall during 4–6 May 2023 in Jiangxi, China
Authors: An Xiao, Jiusheng Shan, Hong Chen, Huimeng Bao, Houjie Xia, Zhehua Li, Xianyao Liu
First page: 1735
Abstract: A long-lasting rainfall event exceeding historical extremes took place in Jiangxi, China, from May 4 to 6, 2023. Because of the concentrated duration of precipitation, it led to significant water accumulation in the northern, central, and southern regions of Jiangxi. The objective of this study was to investigate the weather mechanisms underlying this extreme rainstorm in Jiangxi. By examining detailed observational data, the mesoscale weather characteristics and environmental conditions of the event can be obtained. These findings offer valuable insights for future weather forecasting and warnings. It was observed that after the Huanghuai cyclone moved eastward into the sea, the cold air on its western side shifted northward and converged with the warm, moisture-laden air mass in Hunan and Jiangxi provinces. This convergence of air masses triggered the heavy rainstorm event. The peak precipitation period occurred from midnight on May 5 to 0800 BJT on May 6. Concerning the macroscopic precipitation characteristics, multiple mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) originated in Hunan during this period and progressed eastward along the shear line toward the central part of Jiangxi. As for the microscopic precipitation features, the total precipitation amount was closely linked to the duration of heavy rain droplets. The rainfall distribution in the raindrop spectrum also served as a valuable reference for understanding the persistence and size of precipitation. The temporal pattern of the combined reflectivity echo along 27.5° N indicated that from 2000 BJT on May 5 to the early morning of May 6, there was a rapid development of a weaker MCS after passing through the Luoxiao Mountains. This development resulted in a “train effect” in the central region of Jiangxi. The presence of a 200 hPa divergence area, high vertical ascent rate, and abundant water vapor contributed to the formation of a narrow area of heavy rainstorms in central Jiangxi. Additionally, the falling area of heavy rain coincided with the front of the 500 hPa low trough. In the northern part of Jiangxi, the occurrence of heavy precipitation was influenced by the equivalent temperature front area. Favorable conditions, including water vapor, dynamics, and thermal factors, further supported the occurrence of heavy precipitation.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-25
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121735
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1736: Re-Engineering Dew-Harvesting Cactus
Macrostructures to Enhance Water Collection as an Adaptive Climate Change
Strategy: An Experimental Comparison
Authors: Tegwen Malik, David Gethin, Frederic Boy, Gareth Davies, Andrew Parker
First page: 1736
Abstract: The spinal structures found on Copiapoa cinerea var. haseltoniana, an efficient dew-harvesting cactus, were fabricated and evaluated both in a climate chamber and outdoors in dewy conditions. A mix of aluminium and steel was used to fabricate these surfaces, with aluminium being used for everything but the replicated spine features, which were constructed from steel. Each surface was entirely coated with a highly emissive paint containing an alumina–silicate OPUR additive. Three replica versions (stem only, spine only, and stem & spine) were compared to a flat planar reference surface. Experimental results demonstrated that all three biomimetic macro-structured surfaces significantly enhanced dew harvesting compared to the reference surface. It was established that the stem & spine replica, spine replica, and stem replica all demonstrated significantly more dew harvesting, with mean efficiency ratios in respect of the reference surface of 1.08 ± 0.03, 1.08 ± 0.02, and 1.02 ± 0.01, respectively. Furthermore, the method of surface water collection was found to influence the water collection rate. The diagonal run-off flow across a flat planar surface was 34% more efficient than the parallel run-off flow on the same surface. These findings provide valuable insights for the construction and installation of biomimetic-inspired dew-harvesting devices, particularly in regions that are most challenged by decreasing dew yields as a result of climate change.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-25
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121736
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1737: Investment Evaluation of CCUS
Retrofitting for Coal-to-Liquid Industry in China
Authors: Min Dai, Jingjing Xie, Xiaoyu Li, Xu Gao
First page: 1737
Abstract: Coal-to-oil (CTL) combined with carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) can significantly reduce the CO2 emissions generated in the production process to achieve clean coal utilization. Taking CTL enterprises as sources and deep saline aquifers and oil fields as sinks, this paper establishes a source–sink matching model, which is combined with a trinomial tree real-option model of carbon price fluctuation, and evaluates the investment decisions of CTL. The results show that 36 pipelines with an average transportation distance of 319.13 km and predominantly small diameters must be constructed for CO2 capture and storage combined with enhanced oil recovery (EOR). Under the current carbon price, 83.33% of enterprises can invest immediately when adopting EOR; when utilizing storage in a deep saline aquifer (DSF), even with a 50% subsidy and a decrease in costs due to the learning rate, enterprises still need to execute the deferred option investment. Government subsidies and technological advances can greatly increase the value of investment. The critical carbon price of CTL-CCUS projects is sensitive to government subsidies, technological advances, and CO2 transportation distances. Therefore, China should reasonably guide the development of the carbon market and give play to the role of the carbon market in emission reduction incentives. In addition, the Chinese government can provide direct financial support for the CTL-CCUS project to increase the enthusiasm of CTL enterprises for CCUS transformation and promote technological progress.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-25
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121737
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1738: Analysis of Marine Heatwaves in
China’s Coastal Seas and Adjacent Offshore Waters
Authors: Zhijie Li, Liying Wan, Yang Liu, Zhaoyi Wang, Lunyu Wu
First page: 1738
Abstract: Marine heatwaves (MHWs) are changing global ecosystems and bearing profound socio-economic impacts, yet our understanding of the spatial features, temporal evolution characteristics, and regional differences in China’s marginal seas remains insufficient. In this study, the spatio-temporal variation characteristics of the frequency, mean intensity, maximum intensity, cumulative intensity, duration and total days of MHWs are systematically analyzed based on daily sea surface temperature data from Operational Sea Surface Temperature and Ice Analysis (OSTIA) for the period of 1983–2020. The results show the following: The annual mean frequency of MHWs in China’s coastal seas is 1.4–4.6 counts per year and increases gradually from north to south. The annual mean of mean intensity, maximum intensity and cumulative intensity are, respectively, in the ranges of 0.3–2.9 °C, 0.4–3.7 °C and 3.9–41.7 °C days, all of which show a significant decreasing trend from north to south. The annual mean of duration and total days of MHWs are in the respective ranges 8.7–19.7 and 18.9–69.1 days. The annual mean of frequency, cumulative intensity, duration and total days all show a clear increasing trend, with respective linear increases of 1.03 counts, 3.57 °C days, and 1.98 and 17.58 days per decade. The annual means of the mean intensity and maximum intensity have no obvious upward trend, with the exceptions of the Bohai and Yellow Seas. Finally, MHWs were divided into the four categories of moderate, strong, severe and extreme, with the results showing that moderate ones account for more than 70% of all heatwave events, while strong, severe and extreme ones, respectively, account for about 25%, 2% and 0.02%.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-25
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121738
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1739: The Effects of Varying Altitudes on the
Rates of Emissions from Diesel and Gasoline Vehicles Using a Portable
Emission Measurement System
Authors: Zhaoyu Qi, Ming Gu, Jianguo Cao, Zhiwei Zhang, Chuanzhou You, Yue Zhan, Zhongwu Ma, Wei Huang
First page: 1739
Abstract: The high altitude in mountainous regions results in lower atmospheric pressure, oxygen concentration and temperature, leading to lower combustion efficiency in motor vehicles. Therefore, there may be differences in carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions characteristics at different altitudes. In this study, a portable emission measurement system was used to investigate the effects of varying elevations on the emission factors of CO2, CO, and NOX on diesel and gasoline-powered vehicles at altitudes ranging from 2270 to 4540 m in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau of China. Additionally, the influencing factors of CO2, CO, and NOX emissions were studied. Results showed that the CO2, CO, and NOX emission factors for diesel vehicles varied in the range of 161.83–195.54, 0.59–0.77, and 4.61–6.58 g/km; the population means with 90% confidence intervals were 178.54, 0.68, and 5.60 g/km, respectively. For gasoline vehicles, the CO2, CO, and NOX emission factors varied in the range of 161.66–181.98, 0.95–1.06, and 0.12–0.25 g/km; the population means with 90% confidence intervals were 171.82, 1.01, and 0.19 g/km, respectively. Overall, the emission factors of diesel vehicles were higher than those of gasoline vehicles, and the emissions increased with increasing altitude. Atmospheric pressure was identified as the primary environmental factor affecting CO2, CO, and NOX emissions. As the speed of motor vehicles increased, the emission of CO2 also increased, while there was a quadratic relationship with acceleration. This study provides a reference and guidance for vehicle pollution control in high-altitude regions.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-26
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121739
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1740: Research on the Construction Method of
Heat Island Network Resistance Surface Based on County Perspective
Authors: Shiyun Cheng, Shuai Li, Feng Qi
First page: 1740
Abstract: The urban heat island effect is a typical feature of urban climates. Problems associated with urban heat islands include an increase in energy consumption and health issues resulting from a reduction in thermal comfort. The method of constructing a heat island network, which helps identify and analyze urban heat island phenomena, has become a focus of research in areas such as the effect of urban greening on the heat island effect. Considering this, Landsat remote sensing images from Tiantai County, Taizhou City, were used to identify and analyze the distribution characteristics of heat island patches in Tiantai County as a whole, using morphological spatial pattern analysis (MSPA) combined with the model of minimum cumulative resistance (MCR). Simultaneously, based on the local climate zones theory, the resistance value was calculated to construct the Tiantai County heat island network, and the following conclusions were formed after analyzing the results: (1) The final constructed heat island network consists of 20 important heat island sources, 60 important heat island corridors, and 130 general heat island corridors. (2) The important heat-island-source land matrix consists primarily of an impermeable surface, bare soil, and sand. Important heat island corridors are mostly found in the impermeable surface area. (3) According to calculations, dense trees have a resistance value of 100. Water bodies and scattered trees have resistance values of 10 and 5, respectively. They all have a blocking effect on the heat island.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-26
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121740
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1741: Variability in Global Climatic
Circulation Indices and Its Relationship
Authors: Hosny Hasanean, Abdullkarim Almaashi, Abdulhaleem Labban
First page: 1741
Abstract: Global climatic circulation indices play a major role in determining regional and global climate conditions. These atmospheric circulation patterns exhibit substantial variability, covering a wide geographical area and affecting weather-related events. The primary goal of this study was to examine and characterize various global climatic variability indices during the 1950 to 2020 period (El Niño Southern Oscillation, ENSO; Southern Oscillation Index, SOI; North Atlantic Oscillation, NAO; Atlantic Meridional Mode, AMM; and Indian Ocean Dipole, IOD). Also, this article try to investigating the link between these global climatic indices. Trend analysis showed that the ENSO index exhibits the highest recurrence frequency of correlation relationships with the other yearly global indices with significance at the 95% and 99% levels, while the NAO index exhibits the lowest recurrence frequency. On a seasonal basis, most indices demonstrate more abrupt changes during the winter season than during the summer. An increase occurred in events of abrupt changes in these indices over the last two decades (2000 to 2020), especially annually and in summer. The SOI exhibits the largest number of abrupt changes throughout the entire study period, spanning from positive to negative significant trends, whereas the IOD did not exhibit abrupt changes annually. Increasing and decreasing trends in the global climatic circulation indices may be related to natural and anthropogenic causes of climate change. Regarding both the correlation coefficient (CC) and partial correlation results, there existed a highly negative association between the ENSO and SOI in the annual, winter and summer time series. On the other hand, there is no relationship between ENSO and NAO. Furthermore, on an annual basis, there existed a highly negative association between the NAO and AMM and a less negative but still statistically significant association between these indices during the winter and summer seasons, respectively. Therefore, through the Azore high, the NAO could promote AMM. Moreover, when the NAO, AMM, and SOI are held constant, a positive and robust correlation is reached between the ENSO and IOD in winter season. Therefore, a developing IOD is intensified and sustained during the onset of an El Niño event in winter season.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-26
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121741
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1742: Source Attribution and Process Analysis
of Summertime Ozone Pollution in Guanzhong Basin, Northwestern China
Authors: Yu Yan, Wenbin Shi, Cong Wang, Youfan Chen
First page: 1742
Abstract: The adverse effects of the transportation of O3 and its precursors on local air quality under certain meteorological conditions has long been recognized. Previous studies covered the effects of their transport without distinguishing specific forms (direct transport, via air pollutants originating from emissions outside the target regions; indirect transport, via air pollutants generated from chemical reactions between local and outside precursors) and processes (chemical and physical). This study aimed to figure out the effects of different scales of emissions on O3 pollution in the Guanzhong basin (GZB) by quantifying the forms and processes of transport using the CAMx model. The results showed that the emissions on different scales had various pathways for influencing O3 formation under two polluted, synoptic circulation types (southeast high and northeast ridge). Under the southeast high type, the meteorological conditions favored the chemical production of O3, which led to the highest local O3 contributions from the GZB. The prominent cross-regional transport was positive for indirect transport from south Shaanxi, implying the synergistic impacts of biogenic VOCs and urban pollutants in the GZB. With the southerly winds in the GZB, the downwind cities of Xi’an were impacted by positive direct and indirect transport from the emissions of Xi’an. These impacts occurred through the processes of gas-phase chemistry (especially O3P + O2 and O3 + NO) and vertical advection. For the northeast ridge type, positive direct transport from the emissions of Henan Province was important for O3 pollution in the GZB, as there were remarkable easterly airflows. From the east to the west of the GZB, the impacts from the emissions from Henan Province on cities in the GZB were reduced, which occurred through the processes of horizontal advection and vertical dispersion. This work highlights significant differences in the forms and processes of O3 formation in downwind areas impacted by the emissions from different-scale emissions, and advances our knowledge of atmospheric pollutant transport and its impact on O3 pollution.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-26
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121742
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1743: Influence of Sudden Stratospheric
Warmings on the Migrating Diurnal Tide in the Equatorial Middle Atmosphere
Observed by Aura/Microwave Limb Sounder
Authors: Klemens Hocke
First page: 1743
Abstract: The Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) onboard the satellite Aura measures the temperature at 01:44 LST (after midnight) and at 13:44 LST after noon in the equatorial middle atmosphere. The signatures of the migrating solar diurnal tide (DW1) show up in the difference between the night-time and the daytime temperature profiles. We find a good agreement between the equatorial DW1 proxy of the Aura/MLS observations and the migrating diurnal tide estimated by the Global Scale Wave Model (GSWM) in March. The equatorial DW1 proxy is shown for the time interval from 2004 to 2021 reaching a temporal resolution of 1 day. The amplitude modulations of the DW1 proxy are correlated at several altitudes. There are indications of a semi-annual and annual oscillation (SAO and AO) of the DW1 proxy. The composite of 17 events of major sudden stratospheric warmings (SSWs) shows that the equatorial, mesospheric DW1 proxy is reduced by about 10% during the first week after the SSW event. The nodes and bellies of the equatorial DW1 proxy are shifted downward by about 1–2 km in the first week after the SSW. The 14 day-oscillation of the DW1 proxy in the equatorial mesosphere is enhanced from 25 days before the SSW onset to 5 days after the SSW onset.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-27
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121743
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1744: Catalog of Geomagnetic Storms with Dst
Index ≤ −50 nT and Their Solar and Interplanetary Origin
(1996–2019)
Authors: Rositsa Miteva, Susan W. Samwel
First page: 1744
Abstract: We present a comprehensive catalog of geomagnetic storms (GSs) with a Dst index ≤−50 nT detected during solar cycles (SCs) 23 and 24 (1996–2019). About 550 events were identified in the Kyoto database and used as a starting point for this study. The solar origin of the GSs, in terms of coronal mass ejections (CMEs), solar flares (SFs), and in situ-observed energetic particles, was identified where possible using temporal constraints and wide Earth-directed ejecta. In addition, any accompanied interplanetary (IP) sources, such as ICMEs and IP shock waves detected at 1 AU, are also considered. The resulting occurrence rates and correlation plots are presented and discussed in the space weather framework.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-27
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121744
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1745: Ecological and Risk Assessment of Heavy
Metals in a Diverse Industrial Area of Al-Akrasha, Egypt
Authors: Atef M. F. Mohammed, Inas A. Saleh, Hend R. Zahran, Nasser M. Abdel-Latif
First page: 1745
Abstract: This study was conducted in one of a diverse industrial area in Al-Akrasha, Egypt. Concentrations of select metals (Cu, Pb, Cr, Ni, Zn, Mn, Cd, Al, Ag, As, B, and Fe) were evaluated in ambient PM10 and surface soils at nine sites. Random samples of fresh edible tilapia fish were collected from Ismailia Canal at two sites near the Al-Akrasha region. In addition, blood and hair samples were collected from workers and residents living in Al-Akrasha as biomarkers of contamination with these metals. The ecological and health risks of these metals to the workers and residents living in the Al-Akrasha region were assessed. The results showed that heavy metal levels in the ambient air (PM10) of the Al-Akrasha region were higher than the national and international guidelines. There was a very high degree of contamination (CD > 32) of the surface soil in the Al-Akrasha area, which can be attributed to industrial activities emissions, mostly from smelters and the subsequent deposition on the surface soil. Ingestion was the dominant pathway for metals to enter the human body in the Al-Akrasha region. Adults have a higher daily intake and exposure risk than infants and children.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-27
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121745
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1746: Numerical Analysis of SO2 Absorption
inside a Single Water Drop
Authors: Amedeo Amoresano, Giuseppe Langella, Paolo Iodice, Silvia Roscioli
First page: 1746
Abstract: This paper introduces a numerical model dedicated to simulating SO2 adsorption during the dynamic interplay between combustion gases and water droplets. The research delves into essential chemical–physical parameters governing mass transfer in these interphase interactions. The proposed simplified model provides preliminary results regarding the granulometric curve of sprays, particularly focusing on the minimal droplet size crucial for effective wet scrubber operation. Our findings underscore a critical diameter below which the spray loses its efficacy under varied boundary conditions. Notably, a single droplet with a maximum diameter of 2 mm absorbs more SO2 than smaller counterparts, peaking at 4.36 × 10−5 g of SO2 within the simulation timeframe. Furthermore, the study explores a specific water mass, revealing that smaller droplets, such as 1 mm, significantly optimize the absorption process. These droplets achieve a SO2 absorption quantity over 5.77 times greater than that of a 2 mm droplet. This research serves as an initial tool for optimizing droplet distribution in sprays, thereby enhancing capture efficiency. The insights presented here offer valuable guidance for designing efficient wet scrubber systems, crucial for pollution control in industrial and environmental applications.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-28
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121746
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1747: Improving the Air Quality Management: The
Air Pollutant and Carbon Emission and Air Quality Model for Air Pollutant
and Carbon Emission Reduction in the Iron and Steel Industries of
Tangshan, Hebei Province, China
Authors: Shaobo Chen, Jianhui Li, Qian You, Zhaotong Wang, Wanyue Shan, Xin Bo, Rongjie Zhu
First page: 1747
Abstract: Currently, Tangshan confronts the dual challenge of elevated carbon emissions and substantial pollution discharge from the iron and steel industries (ISIs). While significant efforts have been made to mitigate air pollutants and carbon emissions within the ISIs, there remains a gap in comprehending the control of carbon emissions, air pollutant emissions, and their contributions to air pollutant concentrations at the enterprise level. In this study, we devised the Air Pollutant and Carbon Emission and Air Quality (ACEA) model to identify enterprises with noteworthy air pollution and carbon emissions, as well as substantial contributions to air pollutant concentrations. We constructed a detailed inventory of air pollutants and CO2 emissions from the iron and steel industry in Tangshan for the year 2019. The findings reveal that in 2019, Tangshan emitted 5.75 × 104 t of SO2, 13.47 × 104 t of NOx, 3.55 × 104 t of PM10, 1.80 × 104 t of PM2.5, 5.79 × 106 t of CO and 219.62 Mt of CO2. The ACEA model effectively pinpointed key links between ISI enterprises emitting air pollutants and carbon dioxide, notably in pre-iron-making processes (coking, sintering, pelletizing) and the Blast furnace. By utilizing the developed air pollutant emission inventory, the CALPUFF model assessed the impact of ISI enterprises on air quality in the Tangshan region. Subsequently, we graded the performance of air pollutant and CO2 emissions following established criteria. The ACEA model successfully identified eight enterprises with significant air pollution and carbon emissions, exerting notable influence on air pollutant concentrations. Furthermore, the ACEA outcomes offer the potential for enhancing regional air quality in Tangshan and provide a scientific instrument for mitigating air pollutants and carbon emissions. The effective application of the ACEA model in Tangshan’s steel industry holds promise for supporting carbon reduction initiatives and elevating environmental standards in other industrial cities across China.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-28
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121747
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1748: Spatial Distribution and Inter-City
Transport of PM2.5 Concentrations from Vehicles in the Guanzhong Plain in
Winter
Authors: Pan Lu, Abula Tuheti, Shunxi Deng, Guanghua Li, Jiayao Liu
First page: 1748
Abstract: Regional atmospheric environmental problems have become increasingly prominent due to continuous urbanization in China. In this study, the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model coupled with the California Puff (CALPUFF) air quality model was applied to analyze the spatial distribution and inter-city transport of primary and secondary PM2.5 concentrations from vehicles in the Guanzhong Plain (GZP) in January 2019. The results show that the secondary PM2.5 concentration emitted by vehicles was more easily dispersed than primary PM2.5. The maximum hourly average concentrations of primary PM2.5, secondary inorganic aerosol (SIA), and secondary organic aerosol (SOA) were about 18, 9, and 2 µg/m3, respectively. Exhaust emission and secondary NO3− were the main contributors to the total PM2.5 concentration from vehicles, accounting for about 52% and 32%, respectively. The maximum contribution of vehicle emissions to the ambient PM2.5 concentration was about 19%. Inter-city transport contributed about 33% of the total PM2.5 concentration from vehicles in cities in the GZP on average. Among the PM2.5 components transported in each city, SIA was the most abundant, followed by primary PM2.5, and SOA was the least. These findings will provide valuable insights for mitigating the regional PM2.5 pollution caused by near-surface sources in urban agglomerations.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-28
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121748
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1749: Assessing the Risk of Extreme Storm
Surges from Tropical Cyclones under Climate Change Using Bidirectional
Attention-Based LSTM for Improved Prediction
Authors: Vai-Kei Ian, Su-Kit Tang, Giovanni Pau
First page: 1749
Abstract: Accurate prediction of storm surges is crucial for mitigating the impact of extreme weather events. This paper introduces the Bidirectional Attention-based Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) Storm Surge Architecture, BALSSA, addressing limitations in traditional physical models. By leveraging machine learning techniques and extensive historical and real-time data, BALSSA significantly enhances prediction accuracy. Utilizing a bidirectional attention-based LSTM framework, it captures complex, non-linear relationships and long-term dependencies, improving the accuracy of storm surge predictions. The enhanced model, D-BALSSA, further amplifies predictive capability through a doubled bidirectional attention-based structure. Training and evaluation involve a comprehensive dataset from over 70 typhoon incidents in Macao between 2017 and 2022. The results showcase the outstanding performance of BALSSA, delivering highly accurate storm surge forecasts with a lead time of up to 72 h. Notably, the model exhibits a low Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 0.0287 m and Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) of 0.0357 m, crucial indicators measuring the accuracy of storm surge predictions in water level anomalies. These metrics comprehensively evaluate the model’s accuracy within the specified timeframe, enabling timely evacuation and early warnings for effective disaster mitigation. An adaptive system, integrating real-time alerts, tropical cyclone (TC) chaser, and prospective visualizations of meteorological and tidal measurements, enhances BALSSA’s capabilities for improved storm surge prediction. Positioned as a comprehensive tool for risk management, BALSSA supports decision makers, civil protection agencies, and governments involved in disaster preparedness and response. By leveraging advanced machine learning techniques and extensive data, BALSSA enables precise and timely predictions, empowering coastal communities to proactively prepare and respond to extreme weather events. This enhanced accuracy strengthens the resilience of coastal communities and protects lives and infrastructure from the escalating threats of climate change.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-28
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121749
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1750: Assessing Earthquake Forecasting
Performance Based on Annual Mobile Geomagnetic Observations in Southwest
China
Authors: Zhe Ni, Hongyan Chen, Rui Wang, Miao Miao, Hengxin Ren, Jiehao Yuan, Zhendong Wang, Yufei Zhao, Siyuan Zhou
First page: 1750
Abstract: There have been reports about anomalies in mobile geomagnetic data before earthquakes; however, whether it can be used as an indicator for identifying potential earthquake areas was not be explored. In this study, we propose two parameters for earthquake forecasting based on annual mobile geomagnetic observation data. The spatial horizontal and three components’ changes are calculated in each year and then used to forecast moderate–large earthquakes (M ≥ 5.0) in southwest China in the subsequent period. It is found that earthquakes are more likely to occur in low H- or F-value regions. We statistically assess their forecasting performance by using Molchan’s error diagram, and the results indicate that there is considerable precursory information in the spatial H and F values. It is concluded that mobile geomagnetic observations might be useful in middle-term earthquake forecasts in the study area. We discuss the physical mechanisms of H and F values to explain their reasonability. The methodology proposed in this study could be helpful in finding out the optimal solution for annual mobile geomagnetic measurements for middle-term earthquake forecasting.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-28
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121750
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1751: Santa Ana Winds: Multifractal Measures
and Singularity Spectrum
Authors: Yeraldin Serpa-Usta, Alvaro Alberto López-Lambraño, Carlos Fuentes, Dora-Luz Flores, Mario González-Durán, Alvaro López-Ramos
First page: 1751
Abstract: A multifractal analysis based on the time series of temperature, pressure, relative humidity, wind speed, and wind direction was performed for 16 weather stations located in the hydrographic basin of the Guadalupe River in Baja California, Mexico. Our analysis included a 38-year dataset from MERRA-2 database, we investigated the multifractal nature of daily time series data for climatic variables associated with the Santa Ana Winds. We employed the Multifractal Detrended Fluctuation Analysis (MFDFA) method to extract multifractal complexity parameters (α0, ∆α, and r). This was adequate to evaluate the multifractality of the time series that represented the conditions of the phenomenon’s occurrence. From the estimation of the generalized Hurst exponent (hq), it was possible to characterize the time series of the meteorological variables in terms of the characteristics of persistence, anti-persistence, or randomness. Finally, the values corresponding to the parameters and characteristics of the multifractal spectrum or singularities can be used as quantitative and qualitative indicators to describe the dynamics of meteorological processes during the occurrence of the Santa Ana winds in the Guadalupe basin.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-28
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121751
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1752: A Numerical Simulation Study of Secondary
Ice Productions in a Squall Line Case
Authors: Jie Gao, Xuqing Han, Yichen Chen, Shuangxu Li, Huiwen Xue
First page: 1752
Abstract: Secondary ice productions (SIPs) can produce ice crystals with a number concentration much higher than that of ice nucleating particles in mixed-phase clouds and therefore influence cloud glaciation and precipitation. For midlatitude continental mesoscale convective systems (MCSs), how SIPs affect the microphysical properties and precipitation is still not clear. There are few studies of SIPs in midlatitude continental MCSs. This study investigates the roles of three SIPs (rime splintering, freezing drop shattering, and ice-ice collisional breakup) on a squall line case in North China on 18 August 2020 using the WRF model with a modified Morrison double-moment bulk microphysical scheme. Including SIPs, especially ice-ice collisional breakup, in the model simulations markedly improves the simulated convective area and convective precipitation rate of the squall line, while slightly improving the area and precipitation of the stratiform region. Within the mixed-phase layer in both the convective and stratiform regions of the squall line, ice-ice collisional breakup is the dominant process to generate ice crystals. In contrast, rime splintering generates an order of magnitude fewer ice crystals than ice-ice collisional breakup, while freezing drop shattering plays a negligible role due to the lack of large drops. Ice multiplication through ice-ice collisional breakup and rime splintering produces numerous snowflakes and graupel. This leads to enhanced depositional growth and weaker riming, which in turn weakens rime splintering. It is recommended to add SIP parameterization to the model.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-28
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121752
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1753: The Effect of Meteorological Features on
Pollution Characteristics of PM2.5 in the South Area of Beijing, China
Authors: Zhichen Yang, Xuejun Yang, Chaofan Xu, Qinghai Wang
First page: 1753
Abstract: Based on the air quality monitoring data and meteorological data, the pollution characteristics of PM2.5 in southern Beijing and relationships between PM2.5 levels and meteorological features were analyzed. The results showed that during the investigation period, daily air quality was characterized as “excellent” and “favorable” (<75 µg m−3) on 77% of days in southern Beijing, and there were only two days with serious air pollution (>250 µg m−3). The PM2.5 concentration displayed obvious monthly variations with the highest concentration in November and the lowest concentration in August. When PM2.5 pollution episodes occurred (>75 µg m−3) in this area, the wind direction was often south and southeast with low wind speed (<3 m∙s−1), followed by southwest wind; in addition, the air temperature was low (<10 °C) and the relative humidity was high (>75%). The air quality of the study area was affected by the pollution transmission form the surrounding areas, especially the southeastern and the southern transmission paths. The PM2.5 concentration was positively correlated with SO2, NO2 and CO, and negatively correlated with O3. Therefore, to further improve the air quality in the study area, it is necessary to coordinate the control of PM2.5 and O3.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-29
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121753
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1754: Analysis of Diurnal Sea Surface
Temperature Variability in the Tropical Indian Ocean
Authors: Jian Wang, Xiang Li, Xue Han, Yunfei Zhang, Xingrong Chen, Jing Tan
First page: 1754
Abstract: Based on the 30-year global hourly sea surface temperature (SST) dataset (MLSST) produced by the National Marine Environmental Forecasting Center, Ministry of Natural Resources of China, we analyzed the variability of diurnal sea surface temperature amplitude (DSST) of the tropical Indian Ocean at multiple time scales, as well as its influencing factors. The results show that the DSST in the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and equatorial Indian Ocean exhibits a bimodal seasonal variation with a semi-annual cycle, while the DSST in the southern Indian Ocean shows an annual cycle. The seasonal variation of DSST is mainly influenced by factors such as sea surface wind speed, shortwave solar radiation, and precipitation. The DSST in the equatorial Indian Ocean is generally higher during El Niño years compared to La Niña years. At the intraseasonal scale, the large standard deviation of DSST in boreal winter is mainly distributed in the southern hemisphere, while the large standard deviation of DSST in boreal summer shifts northward. The intraseasonal variation amplitude of DSST in boreal winter of the tropical Indian Ocean is greater than that in boreal summer. The DSST in the tropical Indian Ocean exhibits significant variation characteristics at multi-time scales. This study provides reference for numerical simulation of air-sea interaction patterns in the tropical Indian Ocean, as well as improvement of short-term climate prediction.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-29
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121754
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1755: Effects of Temperature on Growth and
Grain Maturity of Spring Maize in Northeast China: A Study of Different
Sowing Dates
Authors: Lixia Jiang, Ming Wang, Zheng Chu, Yonggang Gao, Lifeng Guo, Shengtai Ji, Lanqi Jiang, Lijuan Gong
First page: 1755
Abstract: Situated at middle-to-high latitudes with limited thermal resources, Northeast China is the primary maize-producing region in China. It is also one of the regions most significantly impacted by climate change. Given the persistent impact of climate change, it is crucial to elucidate the effects of the varying thermal conditions and low temperatures for different sowing dates on the growth, development, and grain maturity of spring maize. To ensure secure maize production and disaster prevention, choosing the optimal sowing time for spring maize holds significant implications for the judicious utilization of climatic resources, risk mitigation, and the provision of meteorological guidance. Moreover, it can serve as a technical reference for relevant departments to conduct climate evaluation, disaster monitoring, prediction, and assessment, as well as impact analysis of corn production safety. Additionally, it can provide meteorological evidence to ensure food security and promote the sustainable development of modern agriculture. An interval sowing experiment of spring maize was conducted in Harbin in the north of Northeast China. Two varieties were used in the experiment. Four sowing dates were set, and the interval between adjacent sowing dates was 10 days. The local perennial sowing time, 5 May, was set as the second sowing date, with one date set later and two dates set earlier. During the experiment, the growth process, grain dry matter, seed moisture content, yield components, and temperature of spring maize were observed. The impact of temperature conditions on maize growth and yield formation was analyzed in this paper through mathematical statistics, which further led to the establishment of a monitoring and evaluation model for assessing the effect of thermal conditions and temperature on maize. The results showed that the growth rate of spring maize was closely related to temperature. When the average temperature, minimum temperature, and maximum temperature increased by 1 °C, the average emergence rate increased by 1.05%, 0.99%, and 1.07%, respectively, and the average vegetative growth rate increased by 0.16%, 0.16%, and 0.09%, respectively. The change rate of ≥10 °C active accumulated temperature was significantly correlated with the change rate of the dry weight of the grain kernel, which conformed to the quadratic equation of one variable. The temperature influence coefficients of different sowing dates varied from 1.0% to 1.7%. The relationship between the accumulated values of 10 ℃ active accumulated temperature and the grain moisture content of spring maize was a logarithmic function. From 10 to 50 days after anthesis, the effect of temperature can explain about 95% of the change in grain moisture content. After physiological maturity, the effect of thermal conditions can only explain 56–83%. The temperature influence coefficient ranges from 1.3% to 13.8%. Comparatively speaking, the second sowing date is the most suitable sowing date. Early sowing is prone to encounter low temperatures, resulting in underutilization of the early heat, while late sowing is prone to less heat. Both conditions are not conducive to better improve the yield of spring maize.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-29
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121755
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1756: Experimental Study of Particle Transport
and Deposition Distribution over Complex Terrains Based on Spherical
Alumina
Authors: Yusheng Liu, Jie Zhang, Hongchao Dun, Kang Gong, Li Shi, Ning Huang
First page: 1756
Abstract: The transport and deposition of atmospheric particulate matter have attracted significant attention recently due to the increasing frequency of extreme disaster events, such as dust storms, volcanic eruptions, and extensive forest fires. The size distribution of the transported material and the conditions of the land–air interface are dominant factors in comprehending the detrimental potential of atmospheric particulate matter. However, it is still a challenge to understand the mechanism of dust deposition, especially over complex terrain. In an effort to investigate the deposition characteristics of particles over complex terrain, a series of experiments were conducted in a multifunctional environmental wind tunnel. The results show that the wind speed directly above the top of the mild slope model is significantly greater than that in the steep slope model, which indicates that a steep slope has a greater blocking effect on wind fields. At low wind speeds, the average wind speed at the top of the mild slope model is 17.8% higher than that at the top of the steep slope model, and at high wind speeds the average wind speed at the top of the mild slope model is 8.6% higher than that at the top of the steep slope model. The influence trend of the steep slope model and the combination model is basically the same, with both decreasing first and then increasing with the direction of wind velocity. The amount of surface deposition is greatly affected by the location of the feeding point and the microscale characteristics of the surface. In the steep slope model, the deposition is mainly distributed on the windward side, while the leeward side has a small amount of deposition. In the mild slope model, particles are deposited not only on the windward side, but also on the leeward side. The average rate of decline in deposition flux in the steep slope model is 88.4% and 75.1% in the mild slope model. The use of the combination model reduces the particle concentration at the back end compared with the single model. In three different models, the deposition on the windward side was shown to be significantly greater than that on the leeward side of the model. Our work increases understanding of the deposition of coarse dust particles over complex terrain and provides basic data for improving the accuracy of large-region particle transport and deposition simulations.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-29
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121756
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1757: Application of GOES-16 Atmospheric
Temperature-Profile Data Assimilation in a Hurricane Forecast
Authors: Zhiying Qian, Yansong Bao, Zirui Liu, Qifeng Lu, Fu Wang, Weiyao Tang
First page: 1757
Abstract: This paper selects the case of the Atlantic hurricane “Michael” in 2018 to evaluate the accuracy of the GOES-16 atmospheric temperature profile during the hurricane and its effect on forecasting. Based on the weather research and forecasting (WRF) model, the assimilation of GOES-16 atmospheric temperature-profile products was achieved by using three-dimensional variational (3DVar) and the ensemble transform Kalman filter/three-dimensional variational (ETKF/3DVAR) hybrid system (Hybrid) systems. And the impact of geostationary satellite GOES-16 atmospheric temperature-profile data assimilation on a hurricane forecast is evaluated. The results show that, during the hurricane, the root mean square errors of the GOES-16 atmospheric temperature profile are all within 2 k at the height of 200–1000 hPa, and the quality of the data is generally good. Assimilating the GOES-16 atmospheric temperature-profile data can indeed effectively improve the analysis increment and improve the prediction results. The assimilation increment obtained by the hybrid system has obvious “flow-dependent” characteristics, which can reasonably improve the initial field of the model. Its temperature increment has an obvious spiral structure, which is in line with the characteristics of the hurricane, and the adjustment of the wind field and geopotential height field is also more beneficial to the development of the hurricane. It has a positive impact on the forecast of track, intensity, and precipitation, and the hybrid system is improved more obviously. In addition, from the RMSE of the analysis field and the forecast field relative to the observation data of different elements, the hybrid system is superior to the 3DVar system.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-29
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121757
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1758: The Gulf Stream Front Amplifies
Large-Scale SST Feedback to the Atmosphere in North Atlantic Winter
Authors: Xiaomin Xie, Yinglai Jia, Ziqing Han
First page: 1758
Abstract: The Gulf Stream (GS) ocean front releases intense moisture and heat to the atmosphere and regulates storm tracks and zonal jets in winter. The large-scale sea surface temperature (SST) anomaly in the central North Atlantic provides important feedback to the atmosphere in winter, but the role played in this feedback by the GS front inside the SST anomaly has not been extensively studied. In this study, two sets of ensemble experiments were conducted using a global community atmosphere model forced by SST in boreal winters from 2000 to 2013. The regional averaged SST and its variation in the experiments were identical, with the only difference being the strength of the SST front in the GS region. The large-scale SST anomaly in the central North Atlantic in our model provides feedback to the atmosphere and excites a wave train that extends across Eurasia. With the inclusion of the strong GS front, the first center of the wave train in the North Atlantic is strengthened by approximately 40%, and the wave activity flux toward downstream is highly intensified. When the large-scale SST anomaly is combined with a strong GS front, greatly increased water vapor is released from the GS region, resulting in a 50% increase in moisture transport toward Western Europe. In this scenario, precipitation and diabatic heating both increase greatly on the western Scandinavian Peninsula. With the release of deep diabatic heating, a strong upward wave activity flux is triggered, and the wave train excited by the large-scale SST variation is significantly intensified. These findings suggest that the strong SST front in the large-scale SST anomaly in the central North Atlantic significantly amplifies its feedback to the atmosphere in winter.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-29
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121758
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1759: Spatiotemporal Variability of Urban Air
Pollution in Bucharest City
Authors: Alexandru Ilie, Jeni Vasilescu, Camelia Talianu, Cristian Iojă, Anca Nemuc
First page: 1759
Abstract: Urban air pollution is one of the major challenges that cities around the world face. Particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other pollutants are many times over the recommended airborne exposure, generating a strong impact on human health and city well-being. Considering Bucharest as a case study, this study aimed to investigate the patterns of particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide concentrations. Multiyear data from the Romanian National Air Quality Monitoring Network were used to investigate spatial and temporal variability. All air pollutants presented a typical bimodal trend during the day, with specific double peaks corresponding to the morning rush hours and nighttime. Spatial variability in NO2 concentrations was observed, with almost double the concentration values in the city center during midday compared with those for the background and industrial areas. A weekly pattern of PM was noticed, with lower concentrations during the weekends in comparison with those during weekdays, more pronounced in the case of PM10 compared with the case of PM2.5. The fine particle fraction presented monthly and seasonal variability, with higher levels during the cold months compared with the warm months, mainly corresponding to the increased household heating. The estimated proportion of mortality attributable to annual exposure to an air PM2.5 above 5 μg/m3 in Bucharest ranged between 7.55% and 8.26%, with the maximum from 2021. By contrast, the estimated proportion of mortality attributable to PM10 and NO2 above 10 μg/m3 was significantly lower, with values around 4%. The results are useful in supporting environmental planning measures to decrease urban air pollution.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-29
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121759
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1760: A Refined Atmospheric Weighted Average
Temperature Model Considering Multiple Factors in the Qinghai–Tibet
Plateau Region
Authors: Kunjun Tian, Si Xiong, Zhengtao Wang, Bingbing Zhang, Baomin Han, Bing Guo
First page: 1760
Abstract: The Qinghai–Tibet Plateau region has significant altitude fluctuations and complex climate changes. However, the current global weighted average temperature (Tm) model does not fully consider the impact of meteorological and elevation factors on it, resulting in existing models being unable to accurately predict the Tm in the region. Therefore, this study constructed a weighted average temperature refinement model (XTm) related to surface temperature, water vapor pressure, geopotential height, annual variation, and semi-annual variation based on measured data from 13 radiosonde stations in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau region from 2008 to 2017. Using the Tm calculated via the numerical integration method of radiosonde observations in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau region from 2018 to 2019 as a reference value, the quality of the XTm model was tested and compared with the Bevis model and GPT2w (global pressure and temperature 2 wet) model. The results show that for 13 modeling stations, the bias and root-mean-square (RMS) values of the XTm model were −0.02 K and 2.83 K, respectively; compared with the Bevis, GPT2-1, and GPT2w-5 models, the quality of XTm was increased by 47%, 38%, and 47%, respectively. For the four non-modeling stations, the average bias and RMS values of the XTm model were 0.58 K and 2.78 K, respectively; compared with the other three Tm models, the RMS values and the mean bias were both minimal. In addition, the XTm model was also used to calculate the global navigation satellite system (GNSS) precipitable water vapor (PWV), and its average values for the theoretical RMSPWV and RMSPWV/PWV generated by water vapor calculation were 0.11 mm and 1.03%, respectively. Therefore, in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau region, the XTm model could predict more accurate Tm values, which, in turn, is important for water vapor monitoring.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-29
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121760
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1761: Temporal and Spatial Variability of Dust
in the Urmia Basin, 1990–2019
Authors: Elham Mobarak Hassan, Ebrahim Fattahi, Maral Habibi
First page: 1761
Abstract: The living conditions in the Urmia Basin (northwestern Iran) face significant challenges due to dust events. This study investigates the spatial and temporal characteristics of dust phenomena in the Urmia Basin using MERRA-2 data and observational data from Tabriz, Urmia, Sarab, and Mahabad over a 30-year period (1990–2019). The findings reveal that despite several fluctuations, the annual number of dusty days increased from the 1990s to the 2010s in the Urmia Basin. The maximum number of dusty days was found to predominantly occur in May (spring) and October (autumn), driven by two distinct mechanisms. In early autumn, developing synoptic systems associated with increased wind speeds can cause dust emission from dry land sources. Consequently, an increase in dust wet deposition, precipitation, dust surface concentration, and the number of dusty days occurs in October. In contrast, a sharp decrease in precipitation from April to May leads to drying soil and dust emission in May. Among the studied cities, Tabriz experienced the highest number of dusty days (728) due to the combined effects of cross-border and local dust sources. The highest dust column density and dust dry deposition in the south and east of Urmia Lake indicate the impact of declining water levels, which resulted in a dry lakebed as the primary local dust source. The MERRA-2 spatial distribution reveals that dust surface concentration, and the number of dusty days decrease similarly from the southwest to the northeast of the Urmia Basin as the distance from cross-border dust sources increases. A positive correlation is observed between the number of dusty days and MEERA-2 data, including dust surface concentration, dust dry deposition, column mass dust, and total aerosol extinction, with coefficients of 0.74, 0.71, 0.69, and 0.68, respectively.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-29
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121761
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1762: Stratospheric Warming Events in the
Period January–March 2023 and Their Impact on Stratospheric Ozone in
the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Plamen Mukhtarov, Nikolay Miloshev, Rumiana Bojilova
First page: 1762
Abstract: In this investigation, a comparison is presented between variations in temperature and ozone concentration at different altitude levels in the stratosphere for the Northern Hemisphere in the conditions of Sudden Stratospheric Warming (SSW) for the period January–March 2023. Spatial and altitude distribution of atmospheric characteristics derived from MERRA-2 are represented by their Fourier decomposition. A cross-correlation analysis between temperature and Total Ozone Column (TOC) is used. The longitudinal inhomogeneities in temperature, caused by stationary Planetary Waves with wavenumber 1 (SPW1), are found to be significant at altitudes around the maximum of the maximum of the ozone number density vertical distribution. As a result, it is established that the latitudinal and longitudinal distribution of TOC has a noticeable similarity with that of the temperature at altitudes close to the ozone concentration maximum. The results of correlation between temperature at individual stratospheric levels and ozone concentration show that (i) in the region around the ozone concentration maximum, the correlation is high and positive, ii) at higher altitudes the sign of the correlation changes to negative (~37 km). The examination shows that the anomalous increases in TOC during SSW are due to an increase in ozone concentration in the altitudes between 10 km and 15 km.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-29
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121762
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1763: Differences of East Asian Summer Monsoon
Precipitation Responses between Transient and Stabilization Simulations
Authors: Jiawei Liu, Haiming Xu, Jiechun Deng, Jing Ma, Leying Zhang
First page: 1763
Abstract: The differences between the two global warming targets of the Paris Agreement, 1.5 °C and 2 °C above pre-industrial levels, have drawn much attention from the scientific community. However, there is a remaining gap to distinguish regional climate responses in these two most typical pathways, i.e., transient and stabilization simulations, toward specific warming levels. In this study, we discern the East Asia summer monsoon (EASM) responses between these two types of simulations at low-warming targets, based on the fully coupled community Earth system model (CESM). The two types of responses display a similar increase pattern in the EASM precipitation. However, the quantitative differences between these two types of responses are as large as those between the 1.5 °C and 2 °C warming scenarios. The moist budget analysis reveals that the EASM precipitation differences are mainly caused by the thermodynamic, dynamic, and transient eddy effects. Specifically, the thermodynamic effect contributes to the precipitation increment in the coastal area of East Asia in both types of responses, with the enhanced low-level specific humidity. The dynamic contribution shows tripolar and bipolar patterns in East Asia in the transient and stabilization responses, respectively. Remarkably, the transient eddy effect contribution emerges only in the stabilization responses. Further, we reveal the dominant role of the East Asian subtropical jet (EASJ) in determining the contributions from dynamic and transient eddy effects. The changes in the EASJ’s position and intensity are greatly regulated by the temperature change patterns at the mid-high levels in response to different greenhouse gas emission pathways. Our study highlights the differences between transient and stabilization climate states on a regional scale.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-29
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121763
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1764: Variation of Electron Density in the
D-Region Using Kunming MF Radar under Low Solar Activity
Authors: Zhimei Tang, Na Li, Jianyuan Wang, Zonghua Ding, Liandong Dai, Lei Zhao, Jinsong Chen
First page: 1764
Abstract: So far, the least is known about the D-region ionosphere out of the entire ionosphere due to the lack of a conventional detecting method and continuous data accumulation. Medium frequency (MF) radar is an important conventional tool for understanding the D-region ionosphere by measuring the electron density (Ne) within the height range of 60–90 km. To investigate the statistical variation of the D-region, especially at the mid-low latitude area, this study presents the statistical variations in the D-region Ne with the solar zenith angle (SZA), season, and altitude observed by Kunming MF radar (25.6° N, 103.8° E) under low solar activity (2008–2009). The diurnal variation of Ne behaves like typical diurnal changes, which are closely consistent with the SZA. The outstanding feature, the diurnal asymmetry phenomenon, significantly appears in different seasons and at different altitudes. The Ne has obvious semi-annual characteristics, and is larger in summer and fall and the smallest in winter. Compared to other seasons, the variation in the Ne with altitude is the most stable in summer. Due to the impacts of the highest SZA, the value of Ne in winter is the smallest, with a maximum value of less than 300 electrons/cm3, and the largest in summer and fall, with a maximum of 472 electrons/cm3. Particularly, the peaks of Ne above 76 km do not always appear at the time when the SZA is the smallest (at noon). Both the simulations by the International Reference Ionosphere (IRI2016) and observations using MF radar present a strong positive correlation with solar radiation. Meanwhile, it cannot be ignored that there were still large differences between the simulations and observations. To quantitatively analyze the differences between the observations and simulations, the observed value was subtracted from the simulated value. The results show that the maximum value between them was up to 350 electrons/cm3, and the minimum difference appeared at around 72 km, with a value less than 100 electrons/cm3. However, below 66 km, the observations were larger than the simulations, which were, on the contrary, above 76 km.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-29
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121764
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1765: Characteristics of Lightning Activities
over the Tibetan Plateau Based on Satellite Detection and Its Circulation
Background Analysis
Authors: Jie Zhu, Shulin Zhi, Suling Ren
First page: 1765
Abstract: Based on the detection data obtained by the LMI (Lightning Mapping Imager)—China’s first satellite-based lightning observation payload—from 2018–2022, combined with the ERA5 (ECMWF Reanalysis v5) reanalysis data of the same period, the temporal and spatial characteristics of lightning activities over the Tibetan Plateau and its response to the atmospheric circulation background are studied in detail in this paper. Based on the LMI data, we obtained consistent and continuous long-time-series lightning observation data for the whole region of the plateau for the first time, and the results show that the lightning density in the Tibetan Plateau is much smaller than that in the central and eastern land regions of China (CELR) at the same latitude. Lightning activity was unevenly distributed over the plateau and had obvious seasonal variation characteristics. The monthly amount of lightning and its ratio in the total amount of lightning for the whole year show the characteristics of “increasing first and then decreasing”. Most lightning occurs in June and July, which is about a month earlier than that in the CELR. The amount of lightning fluctuated in May and decreased rapidly after August, which is consistent with the local convective thunderstorm season. The hourly lightning frequency at different altitudes over the Tibetan Plateau is consistent with local convections and unique topography, and it is closely related to the features of the local night rain. The results also reveal comparative features between lightning and the atmospheric circulation background on the plateau, such as the wind field, CAPE (convective available potential energy), temperature, and humidity at 500 hPa. In the context of global warming, the average temperature in the central and western regions of the plateau increased in the past five years. This shows that the Tibetan Plateau, as a summer heat source, has a gradual warming trend, and the corresponding convections and lightning activities are also increasing gradually. Lightning activities can be used as an indicator of DCSs (deep convective systems). This paper gives a more comprehensive understanding of the characteristics of lightning activities all over the Tibetan Plateau, especially in the western part of the plateau, which lacked ground-based lightning observation data before. In addition, it reveals the comparative features between the lightning activities and the circulation background over the plateau in the past five years, which is helpful for further understanding the contribution of lightning activities to the plateau’s climate change. It can provide some reference for monitoring and researching the severe convective weather over the Tibetan Plateau.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-29
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121765
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1766: Two-Stream Networks for COPERT Correction
Model with Time-Frequency Features Fusion
Authors: Zhenyi Xu, Ruibin Wang, Kai Pan, Jiaren Li, Qilai Wu
First page: 1766
Abstract: Emission factors serve as a valuable tool for quantifying the release of pollutants from road vehicles and predicting emissions within a specific time or area. In order to overcome the limitation of the computer program to calculate emissions from the road transport (COPERT) model in directly obtaining precise emission factors from on-board diagnostic (OBD) data, we propose a novel two-stream network that combines time-series features and time-frequency features to enhance the accuracy of the COPERT model. Firstly, for the instantaneous emission factors of NOx from multiple driving segments provided by heavy-duty diesel vehicles in actual driving, we select the monitored attributes with a high correlation to the emission factor of NOx considering the data scale and employing Spearman rank correlation analysis to obtain the final dataset composed of them and emission factors. Subsequently, we construct an information matrix to capture the impact of past data on emission factors. Each attribute of the time series is then converted into a time-frequency matrix using the continuous wavelet transform. These individual time-frequency matrices are combined to create a multi-channel time-frequency matrix, which represents the historical information. Finally, the historical information matrix and the time-frequency matrix are inputted into a two-stream parallel model that consists of ResNet50 and a convolutional block attention module. This model effectively integrates time-series features and time-frequency features, thereby enhancing the representation of emission characteristics. The reliability and accuracy of the proposed method were validated through a comparative analysis with existing mainstream models.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-29
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121766
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1767: Characterization and Source Analysis of
Pollution Caused by Atmospheric Volatile Organic Compounds in the Spring,
Kunming, China
Authors: Shuyang Xie, Yuanjun Gong, Yunbo Chen, Kai Li, Junfeng Liu
First page: 1767
Abstract: The surface atmospheric O3 concentration in Kunming shows a significant upward trend, with high values mainly occurring in March–May. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are one of the most important precursors of O3. However, the sources of VOCs are complex and difficult to identify. In order to understand the pollution levels, the spatial distribution characteristics, and possible sources of VOCs, we conducted simultaneous offline sampling at representative sites in six different functional areas of Kunming using SUMMA canisters for one week. The VOC samples were analyzed via GC/MS. The VOC data were analyzed (using the feature ratio method, ozone formation potential (OFP), and Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) model). Some important conclusions were drawn. Firstly, VOCs during the spring in Kunming were mainly derived from oxygenated VOCs, aromatic hydrocarbons, and halogenated hydrocarbons, with significant spatial differences. Secondly, we found that the potential for atmospheric ozone formation is higher in Kunming for aromatic hydrocarbons and oxygenated VOCs. Finally, the results of the Positive Matrix Factorization model (PMF) showed that Kunming’s ambient atmospheric VOCs mainly originate from anthropogenic source emissions. These conclusions can provide useful reference information for O3 pollution control in Kunming.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-30
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121767
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1768: Anthropic Settlements’ Impact on
Authors: Niccolò Losi, Piotr Markuszewski, Martin Rigler, Asta Gregorič, Griša Močnik, Violetta Drozdowska, Przemysław Makuch, Tymon Zielinski, Paulina Pakszys, Małgorzata Kitowska, Amedeo Manuel Cefalì, Irene Gini, Andrea Doldi, Sofia Cerri, Pietro Maroni, Ezio Bolzacchini, Luca Ferrero
First page: 1768
Abstract: Light-absorbing aerosols (LAA) impact the atmosphere by heating it. Their effect in the Arctic was investigated during two summer Arctic oceanographic campaigns (2018 and 2019) around the Svalbard Archipelago in order to unravel the differences between the Arctic background and the local anthropic settlements. Therefore, the LAA heating rate (HR) was experimentally determined. Both the chemical composition and high-resolution measurements highlighted substantial differences between the Arctic Ocean background (average eBC concentration of 11.7 ± 0.1 ng/m3) and the human settlements, among which the most impacting appeared to be Tromsø and Isfjorden (mean eBC of 99.4 ± 3.1 ng/m3). Consequently, the HR in Isfjorden (8.2 × 10−3 ± 0.3 × 10−3 K/day) was one order of magnitude higher than in the pristine background conditions (0.8 × 10−3 ± 0.9 × 10−5 K/day). Therefore, we conclude that the direct climate impact of local LAA sources on the Arctic atmosphere is not negligible and may rise in the future due to ice retreat and enhanced marine traffic.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-30
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121768
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1769: Cloud Characteristics and Their Effects
on Solar Irradiance According to the ICON Model, CLOUDNET and BSRN
Observations
Authors: Julia Shuvalova, Natalia Chubarova, Marina Shatunova
First page: 1769
Abstract: We investigated the liquid water path and global solar irradiance (Q) at ground level according to the ICON model; CLOUDNET measurements in Lindenberg, Munich, and Jülich; and BSRN observations in Lindenberg. This research is focused on stratiform non-precipitating clouds. The liquid water path (LWP) is underestimated, while Q is overestimated. The lower LWP is due to liquid water content underestimation practically in all atmosphere layers and a lower frequency of liquid cloud occurrence compared to observations. This is partly associated with the structure of the cloud nucleation scheme of the ICON model and with the default cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) number concentration. An increase in CCNs from 250 cm−3 (typical background value for the region of interest) to 1700 cm−3 (characteristic of polluted continental clouds) leads to an increase in the grid-scale liquid water path by 40% and a decrease in Q by 12% in overcast conditions. However, we also showed that the liquid water path is not a key factor of Q overestimation. The main factor is an inaccurate description of the cloud spatial structure, where the correct prediction of the ratio of direct to global irradiance as a spatial characteristic of clouds plays a more important role than the standard cloud fraction.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-30
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121769
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1770: Turbulence Transitions in
Kelvin–Helmholtz Instability “Tube” and
“Knot” Dynamics: Vorticity, Helicity, and Twist Waves
Authors: David C. Fritts, Thomas S. Lund, Adam C. Lund, Ling Wang
First page: 1770
Abstract: We address the sources and dynamics of vorticity and helicity and their relations in transitions to turbulence arising due to Kelvin–Helmholtz instability (KHI) “Tube” and “Knot” (T&K) events. Such events are common in the atmosphere and oceans, and initial numerical simulations reveal that T&K dynamics significantly accelerate turbulence transitions and enhance KHI peak and mean energy dissipation rates. KHI T&K events arise where emerging KH billows exhibit varying wavelengths, phases, amplitudes, and/or discontinuities along their axes. As the KH billows intensify, these regions evolve roughly orthogonal billow cores and induced vortex tubes in close proximity. Their mutual advection as they intensify induces large-amplitude Kelvin vortex waves, or “twist waves”, that arise where locally uniform vortices are distorted by axial or radial advection. The twist waves propagate along, and fragment, the vortex tubes and billow cores, thus accounting for the emergence of helicity and the down-scale energy, enstrophy, and helicity fluxes within the turbulence inertial range. We describe the results of four direct numerical simulations (DNS) addressing KHI T&K dynamics in large and idealized small domains. The large-domain vorticity fields reveal the character and diversity of KHI T&K dynamics, the emergence of twist waves at larger and smaller scales, and their driving of turbulence transitions. Two small-domain DNS exhibit idealized KHI T&K events arising from KH billows that are mis-aligned and that exhibit phase variability along their axes. A third examines the interactions of two vortex tubes in close proximity. These reveal that twist waves drive the character and evolutions of the vorticity and helicity fields.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-30
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121770
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1771: Turbulence and Pollutant Statistics
around a High-Rise Building with and without Overhangs
Authors: Guoyi Jiang, Ming Wu, Tingting Hu
First page: 1771
Abstract: Wind flow around an isolated building is highly turbulent. Facade appurtenances can further increase the complexity of the flow, which strongly affects the gas dispersion around the building. This study investigated the turbulence and pollutant statistics around a high-rise building with large-eddy simulations and determined the influence of overhangs on the local wind flow and dispersion. Large-scale periodic vortex motion was detected. The results indicated that both the oncoming flow and the flow around the building followed a standard Gaussian distribution, whereas the occurrence frequencies of pollutant concentrations were far from Gaussian for pollutants discharged from both the rooftop and the ground behind the building. Near the pollutant sources, the positive concentration fluctuations occurred more frequently; occasionally, positive and negative fluctuations occurred equally. For the majority of areas far from the source, negative fluctuations were more common, but the maximum positive fluctuations were much larger. Overhangs changed the local flow structures near the building facade. Both the maximum concentration fluctuation and the maximum occurrence frequency decreased in the region between overhangs because turbulence was restricted.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-30
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121771
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1772: Glacier Retreat Leads to the Expansion of
Alpine Lake Karakul Observed Via Remote Sensing Water Volume Time Series
Reconstruction
Authors: Weibing Du, Yaming Pan, Junli Li, Anming Bao, Huabin Chai, Ye Yuan, Chaoying Cheng
First page: 1772
Abstract: Due to high altitudes, Central Asian alpine lakes can serve as indicators of localized climate change. This article monitored the water volume time series trends of the ungauged alpine Lake Karakul, which is typical because of the abundance of glaciers in the basin, from 1990 to 2020 via multiple source remote sensing data. The “Global-Local” multi-scale lake extraction method is used to delineate the boundary of Lake Karakul. Consistency analysis was performed on the altimetry data of CryoSat-2, ICESat-1 and ICESat-2, assuming that the lake surface was flat; a threshold value was set to remove gross error, and then 3σ was used to remove the surface elevation anomaly. Based on the pyramid volume model, the lake area and surface elevation information were used to reconstruct the water volume time series of Lake Karakul. The influencing factors of water volume temporal variation were discussed. The results show that Lake Karakul has been on an expansionary trend in recent years: The lake area increased from 394.9 km2 in 1988 to 411.4 km2 in 2020; the rate of increase is 0.74 m/year. The surface elevation increased from 3886.6 m in 2003 to 3888.6 m in 2020; the rate of increase is 0.11 km2/year. The lake water volume accumulated was 0.817 km3 in 2003–2020, with an accumulation rate of 0.059 km3/year. The Lake Karakul basin is developing towards dry heat, with a cumulative temperature variation rate of +0.38 °C/year; the average rate of variation in annual cumulative precipitation is −3.37 mm/year; the average evapotranspiration in the watershed is on a fluctuating increasing trend, with a rate of variation of +0.43 mm/year; glaciers in the lake basin have a retreating trend, with an average annual rate of variation of −0.22 km2/year from 1992 to 2020. Lake Karakul is more sensitive to temperature variations, and the runoff from retreating glaciers in the basin is an important contribution to the expansion of Lake Karakul.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-30
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121772
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1773: The Correspondence between Large Pressure
Fluctuations and Runway Wind Shear: The Event on 12 December 2019 at
Songshan Airport, Taipei
Authors: Chin-Piao Pu, Chung-Chieh Wang
First page: 1773
Abstract: In this study, the association of large pressure fluctuations (LPFs) ≥ 0.2 hPa and runway wind shear (RWS) ≥ 12 kt at the Songshan Airport in Taipei, Taiwan, during the event on 12 December 2019 with strong northeasterly winds are analyzed. The goal of the study is to demonstrate that the two phenomena exhibited close correspondence, and the former (LPFs) measured using a single barometer can be useful to detect the latter (RWS), which relies on the low-level wind-shear alert system (LLWAS) at the present time. Concentrated before 1200 UTC and especially during 0100-0800 UTC, both LPFs (52 times) and RWS (62 times) over the runway exhibited close association, and one rarely occurred more than 15–20 min apart in time from the other. Using the 2 × 2 contingency table and categorical scores, our results for LPFs and RWS to both occur at least once or five times within the same hour also suggest high accuracy rates of ≥80% and low miss rate and false alarm ratio of both < 10%, respectively. The two variables are also tested to be statistically dependent on each other to a high confidence level of 95–97.5%. Thus, using LPFs as an auxiliary or additional method to detect RWS at airports appears to be reasonable and feasible. At small and remote airports where the LLWAS is not yet available, this method also provides a good and less expensive alternative and can be helpful to the overall improvement of air traffic safety around the world.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-30
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121773
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1774: Positive Effect Observed on Reducing
Criteria Pollutant Emissions Provided by Provisional Local Regulations
during the 2022 Winter Olympics
Authors: Zongwen Shi, Zhoupeng Ren, Junfu Fan, Jiwei Zuo, Yu Gao, Fulu Wei
First page: 1774
Abstract: This study examined the impact of temporary air quality control measures on reducing pollutants during the 2022 Winter Olympics in China, utilizing real-time monitoring data from 2017 and 2022 to assess spatial and temporal variations in critical air pollutant concentrations. The results showed that concentrations of PM2.5, PM10, CO, SO2, and NO2 in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region during the Olympic Games showed a marked decrease compared to the historical period, with reductions of 36.59%, 20.35%, 33.95%, 28.90%, and 22.70%, respectively. Significant north–south spatial differences were observed in Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei Province during the Olympic period. The cities of Zhangjiakou, Chengde, Qinhuangdao, Beijing, and Tangshan showed the most significant pollution reduction. Based on assessments conducted during the Olympic period, it was noted that more than 95% of the daily average concentrations of pollutants are below the maximum values set by the World Health Organization for the interim target. Our research shows that provisional regulations effectively control the emission of air pollutants, providing a solid reference and basis for ensuring air quality during major international events.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-30
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121774
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1775: Analysis of Nature-Based Solutions
Research Trends and Integrated Means of Implementation in Climate Change
Authors: Eunho Choi, Raehyun Kim, Jeongyeon Chae, A-Ram Yang, Eunjo Jang, Ki Yong Lee
First page: 1775
Abstract: Nature-based solutions (NbS) is an approach to solving climate change and social issues based on nature. Despite NbS being widely studied as an effective method to solve social problems, the trends in NbS research have hardly been analyzed. Therefore, this study examined change patterns in NbS-related research topics over time and analyzed the interactions of NbS research and relevant activities in various fields. After reviewing research papers based on the search term ‘nature-based solutions’ on Scopus, and collecting 1567 research papers, we conducted dynamic topic modeling (DTM) and network analysis. The papers were classified into 19 topics via DTM. Water, forest, and urban topics made up the greatest portion of NbS research, while NbS topics in the forest sector showed a steady increase over time. This study also found close connections between NbS studies on forests and other sectors and confirmed that the forest sector can become an integrated means of contributing to climate change responses and other resultant social issues. This study demonstrates that DTM and network analysis are useful tools for understanding the trends in NbS research and finding the linkages between various fields.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-30
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121775
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1776: Assimilation and Evaluation of the
COSMIC–2 and Sounding Data in Tropospheric Atmospheric Refractivity
Forecasting across the Yellow Sea through an
Ocean–Atmosphere–Wave Coupled Model
Authors: Sheng Wu, Jiayu Song, Jing Zou, Xiangjun Tian, Zhijin Qiu, Bo Wang, Tong Hu, Zhiqian Li, Zhiyang Zhang
First page: 1776
Abstract: In this study, a forecasting model was developed based on the COAWST and atmospheric 3D EnVar module to investigate the effects of assimilation of the sounding and COSMIC–2 data on the forecasting of the revised atmospheric refraction. Three groups of 72 h forecasting tests, with assimilation of different data obtained for a period of one month, were constructed over the Yellow Sea. The results revealed that the bias of the revised atmospheric refraction was the lowest if both the sounding and COSMIC–2 data were assimilated. As a result of the assimilation of the hybrid data, the mean bias reduced by 6.09–6.28% within an altitude of 10 km, and the greatest reduction occurred below the altitude of 3000 m. In contrast, the test that assimilated only the sounding data led to an increase in bias at several levels. This increased bias was corrected after the introduction of the COSMIC–2 data, with the mean correction of 1.6 M within the middle and lower troposphere. During the typhoon period, the improvements in the assimilation were more significant than usual. The improved forecasts of the revised atmospheric refraction were mainly due to the moisture changes within the middle and lower troposphere, while the changes in the upper troposphere were influenced by multiple factors.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-30
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121776
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1777: Validation of FY-4A/AGRI LST and High
Temporal–Spatial Resolution Analysis of Surface Heat Resources in
Hunan Province, Central China
Authors: Jiazhi Fan, Hao Lin, Qinzhe Han, Leishi Chen, Shiqi Tan, Wei Li
First page: 1777
Abstract: Land surface temperature (LST) is a crucial parameter in climate and ecology, exerting significant influence on meteorological conditions, ecosystems, and human life. LST data sources are diverse, with remote sensing being the prevailing means of acquisition. FY-4A/AGRI offers high-quality LST products for East Asia. We conducted a comprehensive evaluation and refined analysis of surface heat resources in Hunan Province, central China, over a two-year period using the 4 km/1 h resolution product in this study. The results demonstrate that the FY-4A LST product effectively captures surface temperature (R = 0.893), albeit with a relatively high error level (Bias = −6.295 °C; RMSE = 8.58 °C), particularly in capturing high LST values. The performance of this product is superior in the eastern flat terrain area of Hunan Province compared to its performance in the western mountainous region due to environmental conditions causing systematic errors that contribute to instability in detection deviation for this product. Surface heat resources are more abundant in eastern Hunan Province than in mountainous areas located west and southwardly, and the detailed distribution of them at finer scales is mainly influenced by terrain and climate conditions. There is no obvious seasonal difference in the distribution of heat resources except in winter, and rapid urbanization within Chang–Zhu–Tan urban agglomeration over two years has significantly altered the spatial distribution pattern of surface heat resources across Hunan Province. These findings provide a quantitative baseline for assessing FY-4A satellite’s detection capability while serving as a reference for further application of its LST products and establishing foundations for divisional classification and utilization strategies pertaining to surface heat resources within Hunan Province.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-30
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121777
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1778: Estimating Ground Heat Flux from Net
Radiation
Authors: Cheng-I Hsieh, Cheng-Jiun Chiu, I-Hang Huang, Supattra Visessri
First page: 1778
Abstract: Ground heat flux may play an important role in surface energy balance. In this study we evaluate the performance of the objective hysteresis model (OHM) for estimating ground heat flux from net radiation and compare it with the linear regression model. The experimental sites include residential roofs (concrete), campus grassland, agricultural grassland, and peat bog. Our field measurements show that the mean partition coefficient from net radiation to ground heat flux varied from 0.47 (concrete roof) to 0.079 (agricultural grassland). The mean hysteresis (lag) factors for residential roof, campus grassland, and peat bog were 0.55, 0.26, and −0.11 h, respectively; and the hysteresis factor at the agricultural site was only 0.032 h. However, the partition and hysteresis coefficients in the OHM were found to vary with time for the same surface. Our measurements and analysis show that when the hysteresis factor is larger than 0.11 h, ground heat flux estimates from net radiation can be improved (17–37% reduction in the root mean square error) by using OHM instead of a simple linear regression model.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-12-01
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121778
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1779: Surface Layer Turbulence at the Maidanak
Observatory
Authors: Azimjon Azimov, Yusufjon Tillayev, Shuhrat Ehgamberdiev, Yodgor Rajabov, Sabit Ilyasov, Marc Sarazin
First page: 1779
Abstract: Results of night-time surface layer turbulence measurements using ESO LuSci at the Maidanak observatory are presented. Turbulence in the surface layer was evaluated at the Maidanak observatory using LuSci during the period of 2021–2022. The overall median DIMM-seeing was 0.74 arcseconds during this period. It was determined that the seeing in the surface layer up to 256 m equals 0.44 arcseconds. This corresponds to 42% of the contribution to the integral seeing in the entire atmosphere. A telescope installed at 6 m above the ground will be affected by 33% of the integral turbulence and about 79% of the surface layer one. Taking into account that the free atmosphere contributes around 30%, we conclude that around 30% of the overall seeing is contributed by the boundary layer above the Maidanak observatory.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-12-01
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121779
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1780: Influence of Longitudinal and Lateral
Forces on the Emission of Tire–Road Particulate Matter and Its Size
Distribution
Authors: Stefan Schläfle, Hans-Joachim Unrau, Frank Gauterin
First page: 1780
Abstract: The objective of this study was to experimentally determine the mathematical correlations between the loading of the tire, being longitudinal and lateral forces, and the emission of particulate matter (PM) from the tire–road contact. Existing emission factors (EF, emission per vehicle and distance traveled) are the result of long-term measurements, which means that no conclusion can be drawn about the exact driving condition. To determine meaningful emission factors, extensive driving tests were conducted on an internal drum test bench while measuring PM emissions from the tire–road contact in real-time. This showed that the increases in emission over longitudinal and lateral forces can be approximated with fourth-order functions, with lateral forces leading to significantly higher emissions than longitudinal forces for the summer tire investigated. Using the emission functions obtained, a three-dimensional map was created that assigns an EF to each load condition consisting of different longitudinal and lateral forces for one vertical load. With known driving data, the map can be used for future simulation models to predict the total emission of real driving cycles. Furthermore, the results show that the average particle size increases with increasing horizontal force. The particles collected during the tests were analyzed to determine the proportions of tire and road material. According to the results, the tire contributes only about 20% of the particle mass, while 80% is attributable to the road surface. In terms of volume, these shares are 32% and 68%, respectively.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-12-01
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121780
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1781: Simulation of the Spatial Flow of Wind
Erosion Prevention Services in Arid Inland River Basins: A Case Study of
Shiyang River Basin, NW China
Authors: Jinghu Pan, Juan Wei, Baicui Xu
First page: 1781
Abstract: Wind erosion is a key global environmental problem. As an important protective measure to provide services to the ecosystems in wind-eroded areas, the wind erosion prevention service is of great significance to the management of wind and sand hazards and ecological environment restoration in the wind-eroded areas and the neighboring areas. Taking the Shiyang River basin as the study area, the quality of supplies for wind erosion prevention services was estimated using the RWEQ model for the years 2005, 2010, 2015, and 2020; the trajectories of air masses at wind speeds higher than the sand-causing wind speeds were simulated based on the forward trajectory module of the HYSPLIT model for a 24 h period; the spatial simulation of the flow of wind erosion prevention services on a daily scale with Minqin Station as the sand source was carried out; and the beneficiary areas of wind erosion prevention services were identified. Based on the RWEQ model, the spatial patterns of potential wind erosion, actual wind erosion, and wind and sand stabilization services were obtained, and the supply areas were divided. From 2005 to 2020, the wind erosion prevention service flow in the Shiyang River basin was distributed along a northwest–southeast direction, with a radial decrease from the center to the periphery, and with an extremely strong extraterritorial effect. The amount of wind erosion in the basin has a variable downward tendency over time and a spatial distribution pattern of high in the north and low in the south. The area of higher sand fixation is distributed in the eastern oasis area and desert junction zone. The HYSPLIT model was used to simulate the transport paths of wind and sand within 24 h during 2005–2020, the transmission paths of the wind erosion prevention service flow were obtained to be 59–134, and the flows were 2.55 × 104–3.85 × 106 t, displaying a changing trend of first decreasing, then increasing, and then decreasing. Gansu Province, Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, and Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region are the most important areas benefiting from the wind erosion prevention service flow in the Shiyang River basin. The wind erosion prevention service flows in the basin benefit 47 cities in 9 provinces.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-12-02
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121781
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1782: Bedrooms and the Vulnerability of
Sleepers to Extreme Heat Events
Authors: Stephen Emmitt
First page: 1782
Abstract: Insufficient sleep is known to have an impact on health, wellbeing, and productivity. Sleep has been explored extensively in the medical literature but has received scant attention in the built environment journals. With the climate becoming unpredictable, combined with the climate emergency and concerns over energy poverty, questions need to be asked about the suitability of the housing stock and, especially, bedrooms. This is pertinent for vulnerable individuals (e.g., very young, elder members of society, and those with medical conditions) who may be unable to adapt their sleep environment in extreme and prolonged heat events. The aim of this narrative review is to raise awareness of the complex inter-relationship between the sleeper and the bedroom in domestic properties. It highlights the vulnerability of sleepers and the need for adaptation strategies to cope with extreme heat events without resorting to mechanical air conditioning. It emphasises the need for interdisciplinary research to better inform stakeholders of the risks posed to sleep quality by climate change, and contributes positively to the promotion of health.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-12-02
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121782
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1783: Personal Exposure to Fine Particulate Air
Pollution among Brick Workers in Nepal
Authors: James D. Johnston, Scott C. Collingwood, James D. LeCheminant, Neil E. Peterson, Paul R. Reynolds, Juan A. Arroyo, Andrew J. South, Clifton B. Farnsworth, Ryan T. Chartier, Lindsey N. Layton, James H. Lu, Marli S. Penrod, Seshananda Sanjel, John D. Beard
First page: 1783
Abstract: Prior studies suggest brick workers in Nepal may be chronically exposed to hazardous levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from ambient, occupational, and household sources. However, findings from these studies were based on stationary monitoring data, and thus may not reflect a worker’s individual exposures. In this study, we used RTI International’s MicroPEMs to collect 24 h PM2.5 personal breathing zone (PBZ) samples among brick workers (n = 48) to estimate daily exposures from ambient, occupational, and household air pollution sources. Participants were sampled from five job categories at one kiln. The geometric mean (GM) PM2.5 exposure across all participants was 116 µg/m3 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 94.03, 143.42). Job category was significantly (p < 0.001) associated with PBZ PM2.5 concentrations. There were significant pairwise differences in geometric mean (GM) PBZ PM2.5 concentrations among workers in administration (GM: 47.92, 95% CI: 29.81, 77.03 µg/m3) vs. firemen (GM: 163.46, 95 CI: 108.36, 246.58 µg/m3, p = 0.003), administration vs. green brick hand molder (GM: 163.35, 95% CI: 122.15, 218.46 µg/m3, p < 0.001), administration vs. top loader (GM: 158.94, 95% CI: 102.42, 246.66 µg/m3, p = 0.005), firemen vs. green brick machine molder (GM: 73.18, 95% CI: 51.54, 103.90 µg/m3, p = 0.03), and green brick hand molder vs. green brick machine molder (p = 0.008). Temporal exposure trends suggested workers had chronic exposure to hazardous levels of PM2.5 with little to no recovery period during non-working hours. Multi-faceted interventions should focus on the control of ambient and household air pollution and tailored job-specific exposure controls.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-12-02
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121783
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1784: Analysis of Density Altitude
Characteristics at Chinese Airports
Authors: Xianbiao Kang, Guoqing Zhao, Haijun Song, Xianfeng Zeng
First page: 1784
Abstract: This study conducts a detailed 23-year analysis of Density Altitude (DA) at 34 major airports across China, utilizing Meteorological Aviation Routine Weather Report (METAR) datasets, and discovers significant regional DA variations due to the country’s diverse topography and climate. Central and eastern regions exhibit higher DA values because of lower atmospheric pressures at higher altitudes, while northeastern airports have lower DA values, attributed to colder temperatures and lower elevations. A crucial finding is the substantial impact of humidity on DA, particularly in the southern coastal regions, a factor often neglected in pilot training, highlighting the necessity to revise aviation education to include humidity’s impact on DA. The study advocates for a region-specific approach to Chinese aviation operations, tailored to local DA influences, and suggests strategic adjustments in flight planning and risk assessment to address these regional differences, enhancing aviation safety and efficiency.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-12-03
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121784
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1785: Analysis of the Trend Characteristics of
Air Pollutants in the Fenwei Plain Based on the KZ Filter
Authors: Xuhui Xia, Tianzhen Ju, Bingnan Li, Cheng Huang, Jiaming Zhang, Shengtong Lei, Xiaowen Niu
First page: 1785
Abstract: In order to improve air quality, China has implemented a series of the most stringent control measures ever in recent years. Quantitatively analyzing the contribution of emissions to the trend change in air pollutants is an essential scientific basis for verifying the effectiveness of air pollution control. We based our study on the air quality online monitoring data and meteorological element data of 11 cities in the Fenwei Plain from 2018 to 2022. We quantitatively investigated the changing patterns of NO2, O3, PM10, and PM2.5 and their influencing factors in the major cities of the Fenwei Plain by using the KZ filtering and MLR modeling analysis methods. The results show the following: (1) The long-term fractions of NO2, PM10, and PM2.5 in the Fenwei Plain decreased by 10.5, 33.1, and 17.1 μg·m−3, with decreases of 25.8%, 29%, and 28.8%, respectively, from 2018 to 2022. The long-term fractions of O3 showed the characteristics of decreasing and then increasing, with 2020 as the dividing line. (2) The short-term components of NO2, PM10, and PM2.5 contributed the most to the total variance, with the proportion of short-term components ranging from 34.7% to 69.8%, 53% to 73%, and 43% to 58%, respectively. The seasonal components of O3 contributed the most to the total variance, with the proportion of short-term components ranging from 54% to 70.7%. (3) Most cities in the Fenwei Plain had unfavorable meteorological conditions with regard to NO2, PM10, and PM2.5 in 2018–2020 and favorable meteorological conditions in terms of NO2, PM10, and PM2.5 in 2020–2022. O3 showed different characteristics from the other three pollutants. Most cities in the Fenwei Plain had meteorological conditions in 2018–2019 that were unfavorable for improving O3 levels. In 2019–2021, meteorological conditions were favorable for improving O3 levels, while in 2021–2022, meteorological conditions were unfavorable for improving O3 levels.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-12-03
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121785
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1786: Identification of Pollution Sources in
Urban Wind Environments Using the Regularized Residual Method
Authors: Shibo Tang, Xiaotong Xue, Fei Li, Zhonglin Gu, Hongyuan Jia, Xiaodong Cao
First page: 1786
Abstract: The scale of cities is increasing with continuous urban development. Effective methods, such as the source term estimation (STE) method, must be established for identifying the sources of air pollution in cities to prevent economic losses and casualties caused by pollutant leakage. Herein, methods for optimizing sensor configuration and identifying pollution sources are discussed, and an STE method based on the regularized minimum residual method is proposed. Urban wind environments were simulated using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model, and the results were compared with experimental data pertaining to the wind tunnel of an architectural ensemble to verify the model’s accuracy. The sensor layout was optimized using the simulated annealing (SA) algorithm and adjoint entropy, and the relationship between sensor responses and potential pollution sources was established using the CFD model. Pollutant concentrations measured using sensors were combined with the regularization method to extrapolate the pollution source strength, and the regularized minimum residual method was used to obtain the locations of the real pollution sources. The results show that compared with the Bayesian methods, the proposed method can more accurately identify pollution sources (100%), with a smaller source strength error of 2.01% for constant sources and one of 2.62% for attenuation sources.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-12-04
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121786
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1787: An Improved Ensemble-Strategy-Assisted
Wind Speed Prediction Method for Railway Strong Wind Warnings
Authors: Jian Liu, Xiaolei Cui, Cheng Cheng, Yan Jiang
First page: 1787
Abstract: Reliable short-term wind speed prediction is one of the core technologies in the strong wind warning system for railway applications, which is of great significance for ensuring the safety of high-speed train operations and ancillary railway facilities. To improve forecasting accuracy, decomposition-based methods have attracted extensive attention due to their superior ability to address complex data characteristics (e.g., nonstationarity and nonlinearity). Currently, there are two pre-processing schemes for decomposition-based methods, i.e., one-time decomposition and real-time decomposition. In order to apply them better, this paper first expounds the difference between them, based on a combination of DWT (discrete wavelet transform) and CKDE (conditional kernel density estimation). The results show that although the one-time decomposition-based method has an unexceptionable accuracy, it only can provide offline prediction and thus may not be practical. The real-time decomposition-based method possesses stronger practicability and is able to provide online prediction, but it has limited accuracy. Then, an improved ensemble strategy is developed by optimizing the selection of appropriate decomposed components to conduct the prediction on the basis of real-time decomposition. This improved ensemble strategy provides an effective guidance for this selective combination, including taking historical information into consideration in the data. Finally, numerical examples and practicality analysis using two groups of measured wind speed data demonstrate that the proposed method is effective in providing high-precision online wind speed prediction. For example, compared with CKDE, the average degrees of improvement achieved by the proposed method in terms of MAE, RMSE, and MRPE, are 16.25%, 17.66%, and 16.93, respectively, while those compared with the traditional real-time decomposition method are 17.11%, 18.54%, and 16.84, respectively.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-12-05
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121787
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1788: New Ways to Modelling and Predicting
Ionosphere Variables
Authors: Sandro M. Radicella
First page: 1788
Abstract: The new way of thinking science from Newtonian determinism to nonlinear unpredictability and the dawn of advanced computer science and technology can be summarized in the words of the theoretical physicist Michel Baranger, who, in 2000, said in a conference: “Twenty-first-century theoretical physics is coming out of the chaos revolution; it will be about complexity and its principal tool will be the computer.”. This can be extended to natural sciences in general. Modelling and predicting ionosphere variables have been considered since many decades as a paramount objective of research by scientists and engineers. The new approach to natural sciences influenced also ionosphere research. Ionosphere as a part of the solar–terrestrial environment is recognized to be a complex chaotic system, and its study under this new way of thinking should become an important area of ionospheric research. After discussing the new context, this paper will try to review recent advances in the exploration of ionosphere parameter time series in terms of chaos theory and the use of machine-learning algorithms.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-12-05
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121788
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1789: The Synoptic Characteristics of Icing
Events on Transmission Lines in Southern China
Authors: Huan Shen, Bingcheng Wan, Shaohui Zhou, Jia Kang, Huansang Chen, Zhiqiu Gao
First page: 1789
Abstract: This study utilizes the ECMWF ERA5 climate reanalysis database and data from the Southern China Transmission Lines Icing Observation System and applies the T-mode principal component analysis, an objective synoptic pattern classification method, to investigate synoptic characteristics associated with transmission line icing events in southern China between 2014 and 2021. The findings reveal that Southern China’s winter synoptic conditions can be categorized into four patterns, with the predominant pattern featuring a centrally located 850 hPa high-pressure system in Inner Mongolia’s western region. This pattern facilitates the convergence of northwesterly cold air from the north and southwesterly moisture from the south over southern China, resulting in balanced conditions conducive to transmission line icing. Furthermore, during a specific icing event in Zhaoqing City, Guangdong Province, in February 2022, the atmospheric stratification exhibited a distinctive “cold–warm–cold” structure with a pronounced inversion layer, characteristic of freezing and rainy weather conditions that create the requisite environment for transmission line icing. Within the dominant icing synoptic pattern, a northwesterly airflow transports cold air from central Siberia to southern China, accompanied by two primary low-level water vapor transport pathways: one originating as a southwest low-level jet carrying moisture from the Bay of Bengal to the Chinese mainland, and the other stemming from the South China Sea. These findings provide valuable insights into the synoptic conditions contributing to transmission line icing events in the region.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-12-05
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121789
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1790: Spatiotemporal Analysis of Extreme
Rainfall and Meteorological Drought Events over the Angat Watershed,
Philippines
Authors: Allan T. Tejada, Patricia Ann J. Sanchez, Francis John F. Faderogao, Catherine B. Gigantone, Roger A. Luyun
First page: 1790
Abstract: Understanding the spatiotemporal distribution of extreme rainfall and meteorological drought on a watershed scale could be beneficial for local management of any water resources system that supports dam operation and river conservation. This study considered the watershed of Angat as a case, given its economic importance in the Philippines. A series of homogeneity tests were initially conducted on each rainfall dataset from monitoring stations in and near the watershed, followed by trend analysis to determine the rate and direction of change in the annual and seasonal rainfall extreme indices in terms of intensity, duration, and frequency. Three indices, using the rainfall deviation method (%DEV), percent of normal rainfall index (PNRI), and Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), were also used to identify meteorological drought events. Generally, rainfall in the watershed has an increasing annual PCPTOT (4–32 mm/year), with increasing frequency and intensity in heavy rainfall and wet days. A significant increasing trend (α = 5%) in the seasonal PCPTOT (7–65 mm/year) and R10mm (1.7–10.0 days/decade) was particularly observed in all stations during the Amihan Monsoon Season (Dec–Feb). The observed increasing rainfall intensity and frequency, if it continues in the future, could have an implication both for the water resources operation to satisfy the multiple objectives of Angat Reservoir and for the flood operation that prevents damage in the downstream areas. The effect of each ENSO (El Niño- Southern Oscillation) phase on the rainfall is unique in magnitude, intensity, and duration. The seasonal reversal of the ENSO in the extreme rainfall and meteorological drought signals in Angat Watershed was also evident. The identified meteorological drought events in the watershed based on SPI-12 persisted up to 12–33 months, could reduce more than 60% (PNRI < 40%) of the normal rainfall. Insights from the study have implications for the hydrology of the watershed that should be considered for the water resources management of the Angat Reservoir.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-12-05
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121790
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1791: The Status of Space Weather
Infrastructure and Research in Africa
Authors: Paul Baki, Babatunde Rabiu, Christine Amory-Mazaudier, Rolland Fleury, Pierre J. Cilliers, Joseph Adechinan, Anas Emran, Aziza Bounhir, Claudio Cesaroni, J. Bienvenue Dinga, Patricia Doherty, Idrissa Gaye, Hassen Ghalila, Franck Grodji, John-Bosco Habarulema, Bruno Kahindo, Ayman Mahrous, Honoré Messanga, Patrick Mungufeni, Bruno Nava, Melessew Nigussie, Joseph Olwendo, Patrick Sibanda, René Tato Loua, Jean Uwamahoro, Naima Zaourar, Jean-Louis Zerbo
First page: 1791
Abstract: Space weather science has been a growing field in Africa since 2007. This growth in infrastructure and human capital development has been accompanied by the deployment of ground-based observing infrastructure, most of which was donated by foreign institutions or installed and operated by foreign establishments. However, some of this equipment is no longer operational due to several factors, which are examined in this paper. It was observed that there are considerable gaps in ground-based space-weather-observing infrastructure in many African countries, a situation that hampers the data acquisition necessary for space weather research, hence limiting possible development of space weather products and services that could help address socio-economic challenges. This paper presents the current status of space weather science in Africa from the point of view of some key leaders in this field, focusing on infrastructure, situation, human capital development, and the research landscape.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-12-05
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14121791
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 12 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1692: El Niño’s Effects on
Southern African Agriculture in 2023/24 and Anticipatory Action Strategies
to Reduce the Impacts in Zimbabwe
Authors: Hillary Mugiyo, Tamuka Magadzire, Dennis Junior Choruma, Vimbayi Grace Petrova Chimonyo, Rebecca Manzou, Obert Jiri, Tafadzwa Mabhaudhi
First page: 1692
Abstract: The frequency of El Niño occurrences in southern Africa surpasses the norm, resulting in erratic weather patterns that significantly impact food security, particularly in Zimbabwe. The effects of these weather patterns posit that El Niño occurrences have contributed to the diminished maize yields. The objective is to give guidelines to policymakers, researchers, and agricultural stakeholders for taking proactive actions to address the immediate and lasting impacts of El Niño and enhance the resilience of the agricultural industry. This brief paper provides prospective strategies for farmers to anticipate and counteract the El Niño-influenced dry season projected for 2023/24 and beyond. The coefficient of determination R2 between yield and ENSO was low; 11 of the 13 El Niño seasons had a negative detrended yield anomaly, indicating the strong association between El Nino’s effects and the reduced maize yields in Zimbabwe. The R2 between the Oceanic Nino Index (ONI) and rainfall (43%) and between rainfall and yield (39%) indirectly affects the association between ONI and yield. To safeguard farmers’ livelihoods and improve their preparedness for droughts in future agricultural seasons, this paper proposes a set of strategic, tactical, and operational decision-making guidelines that the agriculture industry should follow. The importance of equipping farmers with weather and climate information and guidance on drought and heat stress was underscored, encompassing strategies such as planting resilient crop varieties, choosing resilient livestock, and implementing adequate fire safety measures.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-16
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14111692
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 11 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1693: Assessment of the Temporal and Seasonal
Variabilities in Air Pollution and Implications for Physical Activity in
Lagos and Yaoundé
Authors: Olalekan A. M. Popoola, Rose Alani, Felix Assah, Taibat Lawanson, Awah K. Tchouaffi, Clarisse Mapa-Tassou, Nfondoh Blanche, Damilola Odekunle, Richard Unuigboje, Victor A. Onifade, Toluwalope Ogunro, Meelan Thondoo, Roderic L. Jones, Tolu Oni
First page: 1693
Abstract: Physical activity (PA) can reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases like heart diseases and diabetes. However, exposure to poor air quality (AQ) when engaging in PA could negate the health benefits. The risk associated with air pollution is relatively severe during physical activities because a higher inhaled pollution dose is experienced during PA compared to when sedentary. We conducted a yearlong AQ monitoring using a commercial low-cost AQ device. The devices were deployed near a public space used for PA as part of a study to understand the health risks encountered by people informally appropriating public spaces for PA in Lagos, Nigeria and Yaoundé, Cameroon. The parameters monitored included CO, NO, NO2, O3, PM2.5, PM10, CO2, pressure, temperature and relative humidity. We detected unique pollutant temporal profiles at the two locations, with a distinct weekday-to-weekend effect observed for the gaseous pollutants but not for the PM. Transboundary emissions related to the Harmattan haze dominated the background PM concentration in both cities in the dry season. Our findings underscore the importance of long-term AQ monitoring to inform action and offer insights into simple behavioural changes that can maximise the health benefits of PA while minimising the risk of air pollution exposure.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-17
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14111693
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 11 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1694: The Elusive Nature of
“Seeing”
Authors: Andrei Tokovinin
First page: 1694
Abstract: Atmospheric image blur, “seeing”, is one of the key parameters that influences the selection of observatory sites and the performance of ground-based telescopes. In this review, the common definition of seeing based on the Kolmogorov turbulence model is recalled. The ability of this model to represent real, non-stationary fluctuations of the air refractive index is discussed. Even in principle, seeing (a model parameter) cannot be measured with arbitrary accuracy; consequently, describing atmospheric blur by a single number, seeing, is a crude approximation. The operating principles of current seeing monitors are outlined. They measure optical effects caused by turbulence, sampling certain regions of spatial and temporal spectrum of atmosphreic optical disturbances, and interpret their statistics in the framework of the standard model. Biases of seeing monitors (measurement noise, propagation, finite exposure time, optical defects, wind shake, etc.) should be quantified and corrected using simulations, while instrument comparison campaigns serve as a check. The elusive nature of seeing follows from its uniqueness (a given measurement cannot be repeated or checked later), its non-stationarity (dependence on time, location, and viewing direction), a substantial role of the highly variable surface layer, and a potential bias caused by the air flow in the immediate vicinity of the seeing monitors. The results of seeing measurements are outside the scope of this review.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-17
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14111694
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 11 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1695: Contrasting the Impacts of Intraseasonal
Oscillations on Yangtze Precipitation during the Summer of 1998 and 2016
Authors: Mimi Tao, Li Yan, Shaojun Zheng, Jianjun Xu, Yinlan Chen
First page: 1695
Abstract: In 1998 and 2016, boreal summer intraseasonal oscillation (BSISO) could reach the middle-lower reaches of the Yangtze River basin (YRB), leading to extreme precipitation. Based on multiple daily data, this study reveals the differences in BSISO events and mechanisms between 1998 and 2016. In June–July of 1998 (2016), YRB precipitation was impacted by 30–60-day oscillation, i.e., BSISO1 (10–30-day oscillation, i.e., BSISO2), with two strong (three) precipitation events occurring. In 1998, when BSISO1 was in phases 1–4 (phases 5–8), the YRB experienced a wet (dry) episode. In 2016, when BSISO2 was in phases 1–2 and 7–8 (phases 3–6), the YRB experienced a wet (dry) episode. In 1998, in event 1, the active convection of the YRB first originated in the South China Sea–western Pacific (SCS–WP) and then in the tropical Indian Ocean (IO). In 1998, in event 2, the active convection of the YRB originated in the SCS–WP. In 2016, in events 1 and 3, the active convection of the YRB originated from the SCS–WP. In 2016, in event 2, the active convection of the YRB originated from the tropical IO and the extratropical WP. Different SST and atmospheric circulations explain different BSISO modes that dominate in the YRB. In 1998 (2016), in summer, (no) strong easterly wind anomalies occurred in the SCS–WP, which are favorable (unfavorable) for the enhancement of BSISO1. Accompanying the suppressed BSISO1, BSISO2 was enhanced in 2016.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-17
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14111695
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 11 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1696: Based on the Improved PSO-TPA-LSTM Model
Chaotic Time Series Prediction
Authors: Zijian Cai, Guolin Feng, Qiguang Wang
First page: 1696
Abstract: In order to enhance the prediction accuracy and computational efficiency of chaotic sequence data, issues such as gradient explosion and the long computation time of traditional methods need to be addressed. In this paper, an improved Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) neural network are proposed for chaotic prediction. The temporal pattern attention mechanism (TPA) is introduced to extract the weights and key information of each input feature, ensuring the temporal nature of chaotic historical data. Additionally, the PSO algorithm is employed to optimize the hyperparameters (learning rate, number of iterations) of the LSTM network, resulting in an optimal model for chaotic data prediction. Finally, the validation is conducted using chaotic data generated from three different initial values of the Lorenz system. The root mean square error (RMSE) is reduced by 0.421, the mean absolute error (MAE) is reduced by 0.354, and the coefficient of determination (R2) is improved by 0.4. The proposed network demonstrates good adaptability to complex chaotic data, surpassing the accuracy of the LSTM and PSO-LSTM models, thereby achieving higher prediction accuracy.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-17
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14111696
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 11 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1697: The Impact of PM10 and Other Airborne
Particulate Matter on the Cardiopulmonary and Respiratory Systems of
Sports Personnel under Atmospheric Exposure
Authors: Xinheng Huang
First page: 1697
Abstract: Respirable particulate matter (PM10) is atmospheric particulate matter with a kinetic diameter of less than or equal to 10 μm in air. According to the definition of the World Health Organization, it is called thoracic-enterable particulate matter because it can enter the body through the respiratory tract and be deposited into the lungs or absorbed into the blood and lymphatic systems. The toxic substances in it can enter the bloodstream directly and cause serious harm to human health. In addition, PM10 has unique physiological and biological effects, making it an important area of atmospheric chemistry research. In this study, two urban neighborhoods and sports companies were selected for the purpose of investigating the effects of PM10 concentrations in the air of neighborhoods and workplaces on people living and working in these environments for a long period of time, as well as synergistic effects between PM10 concentrations and changes in temperature and the incidence of related diseases. By assessing the extent of PM10’s impact on the respiratory system, this study provides basic data for assessing the health hazards of particulate matter in community environments. This study also analyzed the synergistic effects between air pollutant concentrations, temperature changes, and the incidence of related diseases in two cities to investigate the spatial and temporal distribution characteristics of air pollution and the meteorological causes of pollution in China. On this basis, we established a prediction model for related sensitivity diseases to provide theoretical and technical support for the prediction of related sensitivity diseases on a nationwide scale. Meanwhile, our study also provides support to relevant government departments to formulate a scientific basis and preventive and control measures for dealing with air pollution and its effects on human health.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-17
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14111697
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 11 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1698: A Survey of Deep Learning-Based Lightning
Prediction
Authors: Xupeng Wang, Keyong Hu, Yongling Wu, Wei Zhou
First page: 1698
Abstract: The escalation of climate change and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events have amplified the importance of precise and timely lightning prediction. This predictive capability is pivotal for the preservation of life, protection of property, and maintenance of crucial infrastructure safety. Recently, the rapid advancement and successful application of data-driven deep learning across diverse sectors, particularly in computer vision and spatio-temporal data analysis, have opened up innovative avenues for enhancing both the accuracy and efficiency of lightning prediction. This article presents a comprehensive review of the broad spectrum of existing lightning prediction methodologies. Starting from traditional numerical forecasting techniques, the path to the most recent breakthroughs in deep learning research are traversed. For these diverse methods, we shed light on their progression and summarize their capabilities, while also predicting their future development trajectories. This exploration is designed to enhance understanding of these methodologies to better utilize their strengths, navigate their limitations, and potentially integrate these techniques to create novel and powerful lightning prediction tools. Through such endeavors, the aim is to bolster preparedness against the growing unpredictability of climate and ensure a proactive stance towards lightning prediction.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-17
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14111698
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 11 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1699: The Frequency of Extreme Cold Events in
Authors: Na Yang, Liping Li, Yike Ren, Wenjie Ni, Lu Liu
First page: 1699
Abstract: This study investigated the interdecadal characteristics of the frequency of the winter single station extreme cold events (SSECEs) in North China and their relationship with sea surface temperature (SST). The results showed the following: (a) The SSECEs occurred frequently before 1991, but less thereafter, with an increase after 2018. The first two interdecadal modes of the SSECE frequency were east–west inverse and “n” patterns. (b) The interdecadal abrupt change of the “n” pattern occurred around 1997/1998. Before 1997/1998, the synergistic effects between the positive Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation (+IPO) and the negative North Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (−AMO) triggered the “two troughs and one ridge” anomalous circulation in Eurasia. The Rossby wave energy propagated downstream from the Atlantic, strengthening the Lake Baikal ridge. Furthermore, the Siberian High (SH) became weaker in the north and stronger in the south. With the favorable jet conditions, the cold air invaded North China along the northerly airflow in front of the Lake Baikal ridge, resulting in the frequent SSECE occurrence in central North China. Afterwards, the opposite occurred. (c) The cooperation of SST anomalies (SSTAs) led to the east–west inverse anomaly of the SSECE frequency. Before 1991, the high SSTAs in the central North Atlantic and low SSTAs in the equatorial Indian Ocean and the southwest Pacific triggered “+”, “−”, “+”, and “−” wave trains at mid-latitudes from the Atlantic to the North Pacific. The Rossby wave energy propagated eastward from the Atlantic, resulting in the SH and Urals ridge strengthening, and the Aleutian Low and East Asian trough deepening. The northwestern airflow in front of the Urals ridge guided the cold air into North China, leading to frequent SSECEs in central and eastern North China before 1991. The opposite occurred between 1992 and 2018.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-17
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14111699
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 11 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1700: Long-Term MERRA-2 Reanalysis Data
Indicate Atmospheric Environmental Changes for Three Major
Concentrating-Solar-Power-Plant Project Areas in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Zengli Dai, Dongxiang Wang, Renbao Wang, Xiupeng Song, Iwona S. Stachlewska, Zhaohui Han, Xiaoquan Song
First page: 1700
Abstract: The characteristics, distributions, and trends of the aerosol optical depth (AOD) and dust aerosol optical depth (DAOD) of three major concentrating solar power (CSP)-plant project areas (Hami, Turpan, and Ruoqiang) in Xinjiang, China were investigated and analyzed during 1980–2022 using the Modern-Era Retrospective analysis for Research and Applications Version 2 (MERRA-2) reanalysis products. The monthly variation, seasonal variation, inter-annual variation, distributions of AOD and DAOD, and proportions of dust in the aerosols in these three CSP-plant project areas were computed and analyzed. Overall, the annual mean AOD at 550 nm in the Turpan project area was the highest (0.20–0.36), while Ruoqiang had the lowest annual mean AOD at 550 nm (0.13–0.30), and the annual mean AOD at 550 nm in Hami was distributed between 0.17 and 0.33. After 2010, the change in the rate of the annual mean AOD showed an overall downward trend in Hami and Ruoqiang, indicating that the atmospheric environmental changes in both areas were more favorable for the operation of CSP plants. In the project areas of Hami, Turpan, and Ruoqiang, more than 90% of the AOD values were mainly in ranges 0.10–0.30, 0.10–0.35, and 0.05–0.30, respectively. As expected, the AOD values in spring and summer were significantly higher than those in autumn and winter in the three study areas. In spring, the dust contents (i.e., ratios of DAOD to AOD) were the highest, accounting for 64% (Hami), 67% (Turpan), and 69% (Ruoqiang) of the total aerosol contents. In all three areas, the proportions of dust in aerosols in spring have shown an increasing trend since 2000, suggesting that the negative impact of the dust on the power generation efficiency in these areas has gradually been increasing. Therefore, it is recommended that the CSP plants in Hami, Turpan, and Ruoqiang develop a strategy for cleaning heliostats, especially in spring, to reduce the impact of dust adhesion on the efficiency of the CSP plants.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-18
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14111700
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 11 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1701: The Rainwater Interception Process and
Capacity of Urban Tree Organs in Shanghai
Authors: Benyao Wang, Yanting Zhang, Jiankang Guo
First page: 1701
Abstract: The process of rainwater interception by tree organs is crucial in mitigating the impact of intense rainfall on urban drainage systems, particularly in the context of climate change. For this study, we selected ten commonly found tree species in Shanghai, and the main parts of trees, including their leaves, branches, and bark, were collected to analyze their ability to intercept rainwater. The optimized Artificial Rainfall Simulation System (ARSS) was applied to simulate rainfall. The time-changing process of rainwater interception in three organs was measured during a 180 min rainfall event under four different rainfall intensities (4, 8, 12, and 16 mm/h, respectively). Process models of rainwater interception in different organs were fitted with adsorption kinetic equations. The rainwater interception process of tree organs complied with the quasi second-order adsorption kinetic equation. The rainwater interception capacity values of the leaves, branches, and bark of the ten urban tree species ranged from 0.05 to 0.34 mm, 0.13 to 0.24 mm, and 0.29 to 1.22 mm, respectively. The rainwater interception capacity values of the three organs significantly differ (p < 0.05). The results of this study reveal that bark exhibits the greatest rainwater interception ability. Coniferous tree species have a greater ability to intercept rainwater than broad-leaved tree species. There are also differences in the rainwater interception ability of trees in urban and natural areas.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-19
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14111701
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 11 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1702: Identification of Airborne Particle Types
and Sources at a California School Using Electron Microscopy
Authors: Jeff Wagner, Rosemary Castorina, Kazukiyo Kumagai, McKenna Thompson, Rebecca Sugrue, Elizabeth M. Noth, Asa Bradman, Susan Hurley
First page: 1702
Abstract: We conducted a pilot study to investigate air quality indoors in two classrooms and outdoors on the school grounds in a California community with historically high PM2.5 (fine particulate matter, diameter < 2.5 μm). We used computer-controlled scanning electron microscopy of passive samples to identify major PM types, which were used to help interpret continuous PM2.5 and black carbon sensor data. The five major PM types were sodium salt particles with sulfur, calcium, or chlorine; aluminosilicate dusts; carbonaceous combustion agglomerates; biogenic particles; and metal-rich particles. Based on morphological evidence of water droplets, the salt particles are hypothesized to be secondary aerosols formed via the reaction of sodium chloride fog droplets with sulfur from regional sources. The carbonaceous agglomerates had unusual morphologies consistent with low-temperature combustion and smoke from open-burning activities observed nearby. The passive PM sampler and continuous sensor results indicated lower concentrations in the classroom equipped with an air cleaner. Passive samples collected in one classroom exhibited enhanced PM10–2.5 crustal particles and PM2.5 metal particles, suggesting a potential local PM source in that room. Future study designs that enable longer passive sampling times would reduce detection limits and sample contamination concerns. The determination of major airborne particle types in a given environment makes this technique a useful and unique community exposure assessment tool, even in these limited-duration (48 h) deployments.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-20
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14111702
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 11 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1703: The Influence of Meteorological Factors
and the Time of Day on the Concentration of Ammonia in the Atmosphere
Measured Using the Photoacoustic Method near a Cattle Farm—A Case
Study
Authors: Beata Kułek, Tamás Weidinger
First page: 1703
Abstract: Influences of animals, time of day, air temperature and relative humidity, wind speed and direction on ammonia concentrations were investigated. A case study on a typical summer day from 7:00 to approximately 24:00 CEST (moderate wind speed, variable cloudiness and maximum global radiation higher than 950 W/m2) in west–central Poland is presented. Concentrations of this gas were measured at four heights (0.1–1.5 m), which were changed every 5 min, using a Nitrolux 1000 photoacoustic spectrometer. A micrometeorological station was established to also measure the surface energy budget components. The results presented are the average for each hour and for the entire day. The fine structure of concentration profiles, plume detection and uncertainty of ammonia flux calculation are also presented. The highest NH3 concentrations were at a 0.5 m height between 16:00 and 17:00 h when cows were grazing, but the lowest concentrations were between 23:00 and 24:00 h at the height of 1.5 m. The ammonia concentration increased with increasing air temperature and was the highest with a westerly wind direction and decreased with increasing air relative humidity. The greatest influence on the ammonia concentration was related to the presence of cows and the time of day, while a slightly smaller influence was noted in terms of air temperature and wind direction. A case study is suitable for presenting local effects, inhomogeneities and quantifying uncertainties in the bidirectional ammonia flux calculation.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-20
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14111703
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 11 (2023)
- Atmosphere, Vol. 14, Pages 1704: Characteristic Analysis and
Short-Impending Prediction of Aircraft Bumpiness over Airport Approach
Areas and Flight Routes
Authors: Jin Ding, Guoping Zhang, Shudong Wang, Bing Xue, Kuoyin Wang, Tingzhao Yu, Ruijiao Jiang, Yu Chen, Yan Huang, Zhimin Li, Ruyi Yang, Xiaodan Liu, Ye Tian
First page: 1704
Abstract: Based on the Quick Access Recorder (QAR) data covering over 9000 routes in China, the monthly and intra-day distribution characteristics of aircraft bumpiness at different levels were analyzed, and the relationships between the eddy dissipation rate (EDR) and other aircraft flight status elements during bumpiness occurrence were also analyzed. Afterward, aircraft bumpiness routes were constructed using 19 machine learning models. The analyses show that (1) aircraft bumpiness was mainly concentrated between 0:00 a.m. and 17:00 p.m. Severe aircraft bumpiness occurred more frequently in the early morning in January, especially between 5:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., and moderate bumpiness always occurred from 3:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. (2) The relationship between the left and right attack angles and aircraft bumpiness on the routes was more symmetrical, with a center at 0 degrees, unlike in the approach area where the hotspots were mainly concentrated in the range of −5 to 0 degrees. In the approach area, the larger the Mach number, the more severe the bumpiness. (3) The performances of the Automatic Relevance Determination Regression (ARD), Partial Least Squares Regression (PLS), Elastic-Net Regression (ENR), Classification and Regression Tree (CART), Passive Aggressive Regression (PAR), Random Forest (RF), Stochastic Gradient Descent Regression (SGD), and Tweedie Regression (TWD) based models were relatively good, while the performances of the Huber Regression (HUB), Least Angle Regression (LAR), Polynomial Regression (PLN), and Ridge Regressor (RR) based models were very poor. The aircraft bumpiness prediction models performed best over the approach area of ZBDT (airport in Datong), ZULS (airport in Lhasa), ZPPP (airport in Kunming), and ZLQY (airport in Qingyang). The model performed best in predicting the ZLLL-ZBDT air route (flight routes for Lanzhou to Datong) with different prediction times.
Citation: Atmosphere
PubDate: 2023-11-20
DOI: 10.3390/atmos14111704
Issue No: Vol. 14, No. 11 (2023)
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