Dependence of Air Quality in a Remote Location on Local and Mesoscale Transports: A Case Study

Abstract

The results of a field study utilizing ground-based and aircraft measurements of meteorological parameters and several air pollutants are described for two summer periods in the vicinity of Yosemite National Park, California. These results are related to observed air quality and atmospheric circulation patterns in neighboring parts of the state and to transport by the local mountain-valley wind system. The conclusion is reached that maximum air quality degradation in the study area does not occur during persistent periods of large-scale stagnation, but occurs as the result of transport from area sources up to 200 km away by the typical extended sea breeze circulation which develops following such a period.