Atmosphere

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Decomposing Fast and Slow Responses of Global Cloud Cover to Quadrupled CO₂ Forcing in CMIP6 Models

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(4), 653; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14040653 - 30 Mar 2023

Viewed by 640

Abstract

Cloud changes and their attribution under global warming still remains a challenge in climatic change studies, especially in decomposing the fast and slow cloud responses to anthropogenic forcing. In this study, the responses of global cloud cover to the quadrupled CO₂ forcing [...] Read more.

Cloud changes and their attribution under global warming still remains a challenge in climatic change studies, especially in decomposing the fast and slow cloud responses to anthropogenic forcing. In this study, the responses of global cloud cover to the quadrupled CO₂ forcing are investigated quantitatively by decomposing the total response into fast and slow ones using the multi-model data from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6). During the quasi-equilibrium period after the quadrupling of CO₂ forcing, the global mean changes of simulated total cloud cover (TCC) in the total, fast, and slow responses are −2.42%, −0.64%, and −1.78%, respectively. Overall, the slow response dominates the total response in most regions over the globe with similar spatial patterns. TCC decreases at middle and low latitudes but increases at high latitudes in the total and slow responses. Whereas, it mainly decreases in the middle and low latitudes of the southern hemisphere as well as in the middle and high latitudes of the northern hemisphere in the fast response. A change in vertical motion is the major contributor to the cloud cover change at middle and low latitudes, while the decrease in upper atmospheric temperature leads to an increase in high cloud cover at high latitudes. In addition, the anomaly in water vapor convergence/diffusion also contributes to the cloud cover increase/decrease at low latitudes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change and Climate Variability, and Their Impact on Extreme Events)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Diurnal Outdoor Thermal Comfort Mapping through Envi-Met Simulations, Remotely Sensed and In Situ Measurements

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(4), 641; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14040641 - 29 Mar 2023

Viewed by 1080

Abstract

Physiological equivalent temperature (PET) is one of most used indices for outdoor human well-being evaluation; its determination is particularly helpful for adaptation strategies in built-up areas affected by the urban heat island (UHI) phenomenon. In this work, we presented a methodology to compute [...] Read more.

Physiological equivalent temperature (PET) is one of most used indices for outdoor human well-being evaluation; its determination is particularly helpful for adaptation strategies in built-up areas affected by the urban heat island (UHI) phenomenon. In this work, we presented a methodology to compute spatially and temporally resolved PET values during a heatwave at the city level, based on a combination of satellite products, in situ measurements and Envi-met model runs upscaled from specific test areas to the broader city. The method exploits the ECOSTRESS sensor to detect surface thermal patterns at different diurnal times by developing an hourly based index called hUHTI (hourly urban heatwave thermal index) that serves as a proxy. A case study on Prato (Italy) municipality during the 2021 summer heatwave events is presented. Based on the available satellite products, a set of six hourly diurnal PET maps at 10 m spatial resolution were derived and daytime outdoor thermal patterns and trends were investigated according to land cover. hUHTI index resulted a more suitable tool as PET proxy compared to the sole ECOSTRESS land surface temperature (LST) product, especially for morning and evening times. Hourly PET maps were summarized by the use of an average exceedance map providing public administrations and stakeholders a synthetic tool for urban regeneration purposes at city scale. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Biometeorology)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Urban Heat Mitigation towards Climate Change Adaptation: An Eco-Sustainable Design Strategy to Improve Environmental Performance under Rapid Urbanization

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Elyse de la Joie Horimbere

Atmosphere 2023, 14(4), 638; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14040638 - 28 Mar 2023

Viewed by 846

Abstract

Rapid urbanization has led to drastic land-use/cover changes (LUCCs) and urban heat islands (UHIs), negatively altering the urban climate and air quality. LUCC’s significant impacts on human health and energy consumption have inspired researchers to develop nature-based solutions to mitigate UHIs and improve [...] Read more.

Rapid urbanization has led to drastic land-use/cover changes (LUCCs) and urban heat islands (UHIs), negatively altering the urban climate and air quality. LUCC’s significant impacts on human health and energy consumption have inspired researchers to develop nature-based solutions to mitigate UHIs and improve air quality. However, integrating GIS-CFD modeling for urban heat mitigation towards climate change adaptation was largely neglected for eco-sustainable urban design in rapidly urbanizing areas. In this study, (1) long-term LUCC and meteorological analysis were conducted in the Wuhan metropolitan area from 1980 to 2016; (2) to mitigate the adverse effects of LUCC under a speedy development process, the role and relevance of optimizing building morphology and urban block configuration were discussed; (3) and particular design attention in strategy towards climate change adaptation for environmental performance improvement was paid in Wuhan’s fast-growing zones. The results show that UHII in 1980 was less severe than in 2016. Air temperature (Ta) increased by 0.4 °C on average per decade in developing areas. This increases the severity of UHII in urban fringes. It is found obligatory for a nature-based design to adopt urban morphology indicators (UMIs) such as average building height (μBH), sky view factors (ψ_SVF), and building density (BD/λ_p = % of built area) towards these changes. Further, on-site measurement revealed that λ_p is the most effective indicator for increasing urban heat around the buildings and boosting UHII. Using UMIs and a combined three-in-one regulation strategy based on μBH of common building types of high-rise (BH^A), mid-rise (BH^B), and low-rise (BH^C) buildings can effectively contribute to regulating Ta and air movement within block configuration. As a result of this study’s strategy, urban heat is mitigated via reinforcing wind in order to adapt to climate change, which impacts the quality of life directly in developing areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategies for Mitigation and Adaptation to Urban Heat)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

TEC and ROTI Measurements from a New GPS Receiver at BOWEN University, Nigeria

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(4), 636; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14040636 - 28 Mar 2023

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Scintillation and total electron content (TEC) are the two major examples of the top-side ionospheric parameters that are recorded differently by most Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers. The new GPS sensor created by the Atmospheric and Space Technology Research Associates (ASTRA), Cornell University, [...] Read more.

Scintillation and total electron content (TEC) are the two major examples of the top-side ionospheric parameters that are recorded differently by most Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers. The new GPS sensor created by the Atmospheric and Space Technology Research Associates (ASTRA), Cornell University, and the University of Texas, Austin have capability to record scintillation and TEC fluctuations simultaneously. Hence, the Connected Autonomous Space Environment Sensor (CASES) from ASTRA is a software-defined GPS receiver with the dual frequency of L1 C/A and L2C codes for space-weather monitoring and can be remotely programmed via an internet source. The receiver employs numerous novel techniques that make it suitable for space-weather studies compared to other nearby GPS receivers, such as different methods for eliminating local clock effects, an advanced triggering mechanism for determining scintillation onset, data buffering to permit observation of the prelude to scintillation, and data-bit prediction and wipe-off for robust tracking. Moreover, the CASES hardware is made up of a custom-built dual frequency, a digital signal processor board, and a “single board computer” with an ARM microcontroller. We have used the CASES GPS receiver newly installed at Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria, to investigate the TEC and the rate of the TEC index (ROTI) around the equatorial region. Measurements of the TEC and ROTI showed similar variation trends in monthly, seasonal, and annual periods when compared to TEC and ROTI measurements from a nearby station, BJCO at Cotonou, Benin Republic. The newly installed GPS receiver looks promising for scientific use as it is the only one operational in Nigeria at the moment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ionospheric and Magnetic Signatures of Space Weather Events at Middle and Low Latitudes: Experimental Studies and Modelling (2nd Edition))

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Teleconnection between the Surface Wind of Western Patagonia and the SAM, ENSO, and PDO Modes of Variability

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Carolina Gómez-Fontealba

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Valentina Flores-Aqueveque

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Stephane Christophe Alfaro

Atmosphere 2023, 14(4), 608; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14040608 - 23 Mar 2023

Viewed by 712

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The Southern Westerly Wind (SWW) belt is one of the most important atmospheric features of the Southern Hemisphere (SH). In Patagonia, these winds control the precipitation rates at the windward side of the southern Andes, and rainfall is very sensitive to any change [...] Read more.

The Southern Westerly Wind (SWW) belt is one of the most important atmospheric features of the Southern Hemisphere (SH). In Patagonia, these winds control the precipitation rates at the windward side of the southern Andes, and rainfall is very sensitive to any change (strength and/or latitudinal position) in the wind belt. The present-day behavior of the SWW, also known as westerlies, is characterized by remarkable seasonality. This wind belt also varies at interannual-to-decadal time scales, associated with the influence of atmospheric phenomena such as the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), respectively. Moreover, during the past few decades, the westerlies have shown an increase in their core strength influenced by changes in the Southern Annular Mode (SAM). However, what controls the long-term variability of the SWW at the high latitudes of the SH is still a matter of debate. This work statistically analyzes the influence of large-scale modes of variability, such as ENSO and PDO on the SAM and the frequency of the strong SWW from ERA5 reanalysis data of southwestern Patagonia (~51°S), where the current core of this belt is located. Our results confirm the relation between strong wind anomalies and the SAM. In addition, the temporal variations of strong winds are also significantly affected by the PDO, but there is no detectable influence of the ENSO on their frequency. This shows that future studies focused on reconstructing wind history from aeolian particles of lake sediments from southwestern Patagonia could also provide information about the modes of variability that influence strong wind frequency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Paleoclimate Reconstruction)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Evaluating CMIP6 Historical Mean Precipitation over Africa and the Arabian Peninsula against Satellite-Based Observation

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Isaac Kwesi Nooni

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Faustin Katchele Ogou

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Abdoul Aziz Saidou Chaibou

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Francis Mawuli Nakoty

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Gnim Tchalim Gnitou

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Jiao Lu

Atmosphere 2023, 14(3), 607; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14030607 - 22 Mar 2023

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This study evaluated the historical precipitation simulations of 49 global climate models (GCMs) of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) in reproducing annual and seasonal precipitation climatology, linear trends, and their spatial correlation with global SST across Africa and the Arabian [...] Read more.

This study evaluated the historical precipitation simulations of 49 global climate models (GCMs) of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) in reproducing annual and seasonal precipitation climatology, linear trends, and their spatial correlation with global SST across Africa and the Arabian Peninsula during the period of 1980–2014, using Global Precipitation Climatology Centre (GPCP) data as a reference. Taylor’s diagram was used to quantify the strengths and weaknesses of the models in simulating precipitation. The CMIP6 multi-mean ensemble (MME) and the majority of the GCMs replicated the dominant features of the spatial and temporal variations reasonably well. The CMIP6 MME outperformed the majority of the individual models. The spatial variation of the CMIP6 MME closely matched the observation. The results showed that at annual and seasonal scales, the GPCP and CMIP6 MME reproduced a coherent spatial pattern in terms of the magnitude of precipitation. The humid region received >300 mm and the arid region received <50 mm across Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. The models from the same modeling centers replicated the precipitation levels across different seasons and regions. The CMIP6 MME and the majority of the individual models overestimate (underestimate) in humid (arid and semi-arid)-climate zones. The annual and pre-monsoon seasons (i.e., DJFMA) were better replicated in the CMIP6 GCMs than in the monsoon-precipitation model (MJJASON). The CMIP6 MME (GPCP) showed stronger wetting (drying) trends in the northern hemisphere. In contrast, a strong drying trend in the CMIP6 MME and a weak wetting trend in the GPCP were shown in the Southern Hemisphere. The CMIP6 MME captures the spatial pattern of linear trends better than individual models across different climate zones and regions. The relationship between precipitation and sea-surface temperature (SST) exhibited a high spatial correlation (−0.80 and 0.80) with large variability across different regions and climate zones. The GPCP (CMIP6 MME) exhibited a heterogenous (homogeneous) spatial pattern, with higher correlation coefficients recorded in the CMIP6 MME than in the GPCP in all cases. Individual models from the same modeling centers showed spatial homogeneity in correlation values. The differences exhibited by the individual GCMs highlight the significance of each model’s unique dynamics and physics; however, model selection should be considered for specific applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Precipitation in Africa)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Simulation and Analysis of the Influence of Sounding Rocket Outgassing on In-Situ Atmospheric Detection

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(3), 603; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14030603 - 22 Mar 2023

Viewed by 528

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The Meridian Project’s sounding rocket mission uses a mass spectrometer to conduct in-situ atmospheric detection. In order to assess the influence of surface material outgassing and the attitude control jet on the spectrometer’s detection, a sounding rocket platform was modeled and simulated. Using [...] Read more.

The Meridian Project’s sounding rocket mission uses a mass spectrometer to conduct in-situ atmospheric detection. In order to assess the influence of surface material outgassing and the attitude control jet on the spectrometer’s detection, a sounding rocket platform was modeled and simulated. Using the physical field simulation software COMSOL and the Monte Carlo method, this study investigated whether the gas molecules from the two cases could enter the in-situ atmospheric mass spectrometer’s sensor sampling port after colliding with the background atmosphere. The simulation results show that the influence of surface material outgassing on the in-situ atmospheric detection is very small, even under the conditions of medium solar activity and medium geomagnetic activity, while the influence of the attitude control jet on the in-situ atmospheric detection is large but can be reduced by reducing the low-altitude attitude control operation and decreasing the transmission probability. Through simulation optimization and according to engineering needs, increasing the nozzle outlet cross-sectional area, increasing the temperature of the gas used for attitude control, increasing the nozzle rotation angle, increasing the nozzle outlet angle, or increasing the nozzle center height can reduce the transmission probability. This model can simulate and analyze the influence of both surface material outgassing and attitude control jets on in-situ atmospheric detection, optimize relevant parameters, and provide new ideas for relevant work. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Upper Atmosphere)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Tree Traits and Microclimatic Conditions Determine Cooling Benefits of Urban Trees

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Mahmuda Sharmin

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Mark G. Tjoelker

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Sebastian Pfautsch

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Manuel Esperón-Rodriguez

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Paul D. Rymer

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Sally A. Power

Atmosphere 2023, 14(3), 606; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14030606 - 22 Mar 2023

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Trees play a key role in mitigating urban heat by cooling the local environment. This study evaluated the extent to which street trees can reduce sub-canopy air temperature relative to ambient conditions (ΔT), and how ΔT relates to tree traits and microclimatic variables. [...] Read more.

Trees play a key role in mitigating urban heat by cooling the local environment. This study evaluated the extent to which street trees can reduce sub-canopy air temperature relative to ambient conditions (ΔT), and how ΔT relates to tree traits and microclimatic variables. Air temperature under the canopies of 10 species was recorded within residential areas in Western Sydney, Australia, during summer 2019–2020. Tree and canopy traits, namely tree height, specific leaf area, leaf dry matter content, leaf area index, crown width and the Huber value (the ratio of sapwood area to leaf area) were then measured for all species. Species differed significantly in their ΔT values, with peak cooling (maximum ΔT −3.9 °C) observed between 9–10 am and sub-canopy warming (i.e., positive ΔT values) typically occurring during afternoon and overnight. Trees with high LAI and wider canopies were associated with the greatest daytime cooling benefits and lower levels of nighttime warming. ΔT was also negatively related to windspeed and vapor pressure deficit, and positively to solar irradiance. This study provides valuable information on how tree characteristics and microclimate influence potential cooling benefits that may aid planning decisions on the use of trees to mitigate heat in urban landscapes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategies for Mitigation and Adaptation to Urban Heat)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Thermospheric NO Cooling during an Unusual Geomagnetic Storm of 21–22 January 2005: A Comparative Study between TIMED/SABER Measurements and TIEGCM Simulations

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(3), 556; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14030556 - 14 Mar 2023

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The geomagnetic storm is the manifestation of the solar wind–magnetosphere interaction. It deposits huge amount of the solar energy into the magnetosphere–ionosphere–thermosphere (MIT) system. This energy creates global perturbations in the chemistry, dynamics, and energetics of the MIT system. The high latitude energy [...] Read more.

The geomagnetic storm is the manifestation of the solar wind–magnetosphere interaction. It deposits huge amount of the solar energy into the magnetosphere–ionosphere–thermosphere (MIT) system. This energy creates global perturbations in the chemistry, dynamics, and energetics of the MIT system. The high latitude energy deposition results in the Joule and particle heating that subsequently increases the thermospheric temperature. The thermospheric temperature is effectively regulated by the process of thermospheric cooling emission by nitric oxide via 5.3 µm. A peculiar, intense geomagnetic storm (Dst = −105 nT) occurred during 21–22 January 2005, where the main phase developed during the northward orientation of the z-component of interplanetary magnetic field. We utilized the nitric oxide 5.3 µm infrared emission from the NCAR’s Thermosphere–Ionosphere–Electrodynamics General Circulation Model (TIEGCM) simulation and the Sounding of Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry (SABER) onboard the thermosphere–ionosphere–mesosphere energetic and dynamics satellite to investigate its response to this anomalous geomagnetic storm. We compared the model results with the observations on both the local and global scales. It is observed that the model results agree very well with the observations during quiet times. However, the model severely underestimates the cooling emission by one-fourth of the observations, although it predicts an enhancement in the thermospheric temperature and densities of atomic oxygen and nitric oxide during the geomagnetic storm. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structure and Dynamics of Mesosphere and Lower Thermosphere)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Characteristics of Heat Waves in Mainland China since 1961 Based on Absolute and Relative Methods

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(3), 544; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14030544 - 12 Mar 2023

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Based on gridded temperature data from the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), two types of methods, i.e., absolute methods and relative methods, respectively, were used to identify heat waves in Mainland China. Four statistical indicators, including the occurrence frequency, duration days, earliest occurrence date, [...] Read more.

Based on gridded temperature data from the China Meteorological Administration (CMA), two types of methods, i.e., absolute methods and relative methods, respectively, were used to identify heat waves in Mainland China. Four statistical indicators, including the occurrence frequency, duration days, earliest occurrence date, and latest extinction date, were constructed to analyze the spatial-temporal characteristics of heat waves, especially on the annual and decadal change trends. Firstly, we found that both the frequency and the duration of heat waves decreased in the period from 1960 to 1989 but increased in the 1990s and increased significantly from the early 2000s to the 2010s. Spatially, the frequency and the duration obtained by each type of method are significantly different among different regions when considering different facts, such as different regions that have different degrees of tolerance to heat waves. Secondly, the decadal distribution characteristics of the earliest occurrence date and the latest extinction date of heat waves well capture the hot summer, the stronger sensitivity of winter to warming than other seasons, and the gradually increasing intensity of heat waves. It provides a multidimensional reference for the cause analysis and prediction of extreme heat waves in China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Climatology)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Integrated Assessment Modelling of Future Air Quality in the UK to 2050 and Synergies with Net-Zero Strategies

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(3), 525; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14030525 - 09 Mar 2023

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Integrated assessment modelling (IAM) has been successfully used in the development of international agreements to reduce transboundary pollution in Europe, based on the GAINS model of IIASA. At a national level in the UK, a similar approach has been taken with the UK [...] Read more.

Integrated assessment modelling (IAM) has been successfully used in the development of international agreements to reduce transboundary pollution in Europe, based on the GAINS model of IIASA. At a national level in the UK, a similar approach has been taken with the UK Integrated Assessment Model, UKIAM, superimposing pollution abatement measures and behavioural change on energy projections designed to meet targets set for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and allowing for natural and imported contributions from other countries and shipping. This paper describes how the UKIAM was used in the development of proposed targets for the reduction of fine particulate PM_2.5 in the UK Environment Act, exploring scenarios encompassing different levels of ambition in reducing the emissions of air pollutants up to 2050, with associated health and other environmental benefits. There are two PM_2.5 targets, an annual mean concentration target setting a maximum concentration to be reached by a future year, and a population exposure reduction target with benefits for health across the whole population. The work goes further, also demonstrating links to social deprivation. There is a strong connection between climate measures aimed at reducing net GHG emissions to zero by 2050 and future air quality, which may be positive or negative, as illustrated by sectoral studies for road transport where electrification of the fleet needs to match the evolution of energy production, and for domestic heating, where the use of wood for heating is an air quality issue. The UKIAM has been validated against air pollution measurements and other types of modelling, but there are many uncertainties, including future energy projections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Co-design of Co-benefit Solutions to Air Pollution, Climate Change and Public Health Challenges: Building Models That Matter)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Study of Two High Intensity Fires across Corsican Shrubland

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Jacky Fayad

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Frédéric Morandini

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Gilbert Accary

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François-Joseph Chatelon

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(3), 473; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14030473 - 27 Feb 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 759

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This paper reports two experimental fires conducted at field-scale in Corsica, across a particular mountain shrubland. The orientation of the experimental plots was chosen in such a way that the wind was aligned along the main slope direction in order to obtain a [...] Read more.

This paper reports two experimental fires conducted at field-scale in Corsica, across a particular mountain shrubland. The orientation of the experimental plots was chosen in such a way that the wind was aligned along the main slope direction in order to obtain a high intensity fire. The first objective was to study the high intensity fire behavior by evaluating the propagation conditions related to its speed and intensity, as well as the geometry of the fire front and its impact on different targets. Therefore, an experimental protocol was designed to determine the properties of the fire spread using UAV cameras and its impact using heat flux gauges. Another objective was to study these experiments numerically using a fully physical fire model, namely FireStar3D. Numerical results concerning the fire dynamics, particularly the ROS, were also compared to other predictions of the FireStar2D model. The comparison with experimental measurements showed the robustness of the 3D approach with a maximum difference of 5.2% for the head fire ROS. The fire intensities obtained revealed that these experiments are representative of high intensity fires, which are very difficult to control in the case of real wildfires. Other parameters investigated numerically (flame geometry and heat fluxes) were also in fairly good agreement with the experimental measurements and confirm the capacity of FireStar3D to predict surface fires of high intensity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wildfires Modeling: Recent Trends, Current Progress and Future Directions)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Particle Size Matters: Distribution, Source, and Seasonality Characteristics of Airborne and Pathogenic Bacteria in Wastewater Treatment Plants

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(3), 465; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14030465 - 26 Feb 2023

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Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are a crucial source of bioaerosols, which account for both environmental and health hazards. Although various culture-based studies on bioaerosols have been reported, little knowledge remains about distribution and potential risks for more omnipresent non-culturable bacterial aerosols. Here, in [...] Read more.

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are a crucial source of bioaerosols, which account for both environmental and health hazards. Although various culture-based studies on bioaerosols have been reported, little knowledge remains about distribution and potential risks for more omnipresent non-culturable bacterial aerosols. Here, in summer, an eight-stage Andersen air sampler was applied to capture particles of various sizes from the atmospheric environment of eight treatment units from two WWTPs in northeastern China. Particles of various sizes in aeration tank (AT) were sampled in autumn and winter. The abundance and community composition of the bacterial aerosols were investigated using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. In order to explore the importance of particle size on community composition of bacterial aerosols, this study investigated the particle size distribution of bacterial aerosols in different treatment units. The results indicated that the sludge dewatering room was the major source of bacterial aerosols in both WWTPs, with the abundance of stage VII (0.65–1.1 μm) demonstrating a 4-fold to 9-fold increase when compared to any other treatment unit. The highest relative abundance of bacterial aerosols was in autumn, while the lowest was found in winter. However, most particles detected in autumn were larger than 4.7 µm in diameter, while submicron particles (less than 1.1 µm, over 40%) were detected primarily in winter. The most 15 dominant bacterial aerosol genera in were observed at submicron level, and about half of the genera (6 and 8) were detected as human pathogens, suggesting their easier penetration to human respiratory tracts. This study demonstrates that size distribution characteristics should be crucial information for the comprehensive assessment of the potential health risks of bacterial aerosols from WWTPs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Contributions of Emission Inventory to Air Quality)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Comparison of the Tourist Potential of the Climates of the Coastal Resort at Odesa and the Inland Resort by Lake Svityaz

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(3), 460; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14030460 - 25 Feb 2023

Viewed by 696

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The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the human-biometeorological conditions at two resorts in Ukraine: a coastal resort located at Odesa in southern Ukraine and an inland resort situated by the lake at Svityaz situated in northwest Ukraine. The results [...] Read more.

The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the human-biometeorological conditions at two resorts in Ukraine: a coastal resort located at Odesa in southern Ukraine and an inland resort situated by the lake at Svityaz situated in northwest Ukraine. The results of this study can facilitate the assessment of the tourist potentials of both locations by the tourism industry, tour operators, and tourists. The evaluation is based on an analysis of the Physiologically Equivalent Temperature (PET) and parameters presented through the Climate–Tourism/Transfer–Information Scheme (CTIS) for the period 1991–2020. The CTIS data reveal that better conditions in terms of thermal comfort can be found during the warm period from May to September at both sites. The results show that the highest frequency of all grades of heat stress are observed in the last 10-day period of July and in the first 10-day period of August at both stations, but at Odesa, the frequency of heat stress of any grade is approximately 10% higher than at Svityaz. The frequency of moderate, strong and extreme heat stress during the daytime in July and in the first two 10-day periods of August at Odesa ranged from 51.3% to 66.5%, and at Svityaz it ranged between 40.2 and 54.6%. Human-biometeorological conditions during heat waves are more strenuous at Odesa. The frequency of days with extreme heat stress at 12 UTC during summer heat waves is 48.4% at Odesa and 35.6% at Svityaz. The results show a higher frequency of thermal stress at Odesa, which makes this resort less comfortable for people vulnerable to heat stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biometeorology)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Quantifying the Impact of Canopy Structural Characteristics on Soil Temperature Variations in Different Bamboo Communities

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(3), 445; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14030445 - 23 Feb 2023

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Soil temperature plays an important role in soil respiration, which is related to the atmospheric carbon cycle. In addition to its own physical and chemical properties, soil temperature is also influenced by external environmental factors, including plants. Therefore, it is relevant to explore [...] Read more.

Soil temperature plays an important role in soil respiration, which is related to the atmospheric carbon cycle. In addition to its own physical and chemical properties, soil temperature is also influenced by external environmental factors, including plants. Therefore, it is relevant to explore the relationship between plant characteristics and soil temperature. This study was conducted in Hangzhou, China. The influence of canopy structural characteristics of bamboo communities on soil temperature was investigated in detail by means of field measurements. In summer, the canopy structure of bamboo communities reduced the soil temperature by up to 3.0–3.8 °C, 2.4–3.4 °C, and 2.3–3.0 °C at 5 cm, 10 cm, and 20 cm, respectively. In winter, the canopy structure of bamboo communities increased soil temperature by up to 0.1–0.4 °C, 0.1–0.6 °C, and 0.2–0.7 °C at 5 cm, 10 cm, and 20 cm, respectively. The leaf area index and canopy cover significantly affected the soil temperature, while the effect of the sky view factor was minimal compared to other factors. We also discovered that soil temperatures at different depths interact and are influenced by the air temperature. These findings provide a more reasonable bamboo canopy plan to improve the urban environment effectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Green and Blue Infrastructures for Heat Mitigation)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Performance of the WRF Model for the Forecasting of the V-Shaped Storm Recorded on 11–12 November 2019 in the Eastern Sicily

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(2), 390; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14020390 - 16 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 890

Abstract

During the autumn season, Sicily is often affected by severe weather events, such as self-healing storms called V-shaped storms. These phenomena cause significant total rainfall quantities in short time intervals in localized spatial areas. In this framework, this study analyzes the meteorological event [...] Read more.

During the autumn season, Sicily is often affected by severe weather events, such as self-healing storms called V-shaped storms. These phenomena cause significant total rainfall quantities in short time intervals in localized spatial areas. In this framework, this study analyzes the meteorological event recorded on 11–12 November 2019 in Sicily (southern Italy), using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model with a horizontal spatial grid resolution of 3 km. It is important to note that, in this event, the most significant rainfall accumulations were recorded in eastern Sicily. In particular, the weather station of Linguaglossa North Etna (Catania) recorded a total rainfall of 293.6 mm. The precipitation forecasting provided by the WRF model simulation has been compared with the data recorded by the meteorological stations located in Sicily. In addition, a further simulation was carried out using the Four-Dimensional Data Assimilation (FDDA) technique to improve the model capability in the event reproduction. In this regard, in order to evaluate which approach provides the best performance (with or without FDDA), the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and dichotomous indexes (Accuracy, Threat Score, BIAS, Probability of Detection, and False Alarm Rate) were calculated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Data Assimilation on Severe Weather Forecast)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Impact Analysis of Super Typhoon 2114 ‘Chanthu’ on the Air Quality of Coastal Cities in Southeast China Based on Multi-Source Measurements

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(2), 380; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14020380 - 15 Feb 2023

Viewed by 668

Abstract

The northward typhoon configuration along the southeast coast of China (TC_N-SEC) is one of the key circulation patterns influencing the coastal cities in southeast China (CCSE). Here, we analyzed the air quality in CCSE during the high-incidence typhoon period from 2019 [...] Read more.

The northward typhoon configuration along the southeast coast of China (TC_N-SEC) is one of the key circulation patterns influencing the coastal cities in southeast China (CCSE). Here, we analyzed the air quality in CCSE during the high-incidence typhoon period from 2019 to 2021. Multi-source measurements were carried out to explore the impact of super typhoon 2114 ‘Chanthu’ on the air quality in CCSE. The results showed that the TC_N-SEC and its surrounding weather situation had a favorable impact on the increase in pollutant concentration in CCSE, especially on the increase in O₃ concentration. From 13 September to 17 September 2021, affected by the cyclonic shear in the south of super typhoon 2114 ‘Chanthu,’ the strong wind near the ground, stable relative humidity, strong precipitation, and the significantly reduced wind speed had a substantial effect on PM₁₀, PM_2.5, SO₂, and NO₂ concentrations. Calm and light air near the ground, weak precipitation, high daily maximum temperatures, and minimum relative humidity may provide favorable meteorological conditions for the accumulation of O₃ precursors and photochemical reactions during the day, resulting in the daily peak values of O₃ exceeding 160 μg/m³. The evolution of wind, relative humidity, and boundary layer height could play an important role in the variations in PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 concentrations by influencing pollutant accumulation or diffusion. It was suggested that the atmospheric structure of horizontal stability and vertical mixing below 1500 m could play a significant role in the accumulation and vertical distribution of ozone. The results highlight the important role of typhoons in the regional environment and provide a scientific basis for further application of multi-source observation data, as well as air pollution control. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Air Pollution and Climate Issues in the Coastal Atmosphere of China)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Continuous Measurements and Source Apportionment of Ambient PM_2.5-Bound Elements in Windsor, Canada

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(2), 374; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14020374 - 14 Feb 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 954

Abstract

Ambient fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) levels in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, are impacted by local emissions and regional/transboundary transport input and also attributable to secondary formation. PM_2.5-bound elements were monitored hourly in Windsor from April to October 2021. Observed concentrations [...] Read more.

Ambient fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) levels in Windsor, Ontario, Canada, are impacted by local emissions and regional/transboundary transport input and also attributable to secondary formation. PM_2.5-bound elements were monitored hourly in Windsor from April to October 2021. Observed concentrations of the elements were generally comparable to historical measurements at urban sites in Ontario. A clear diurnal pattern was observed for most of the elements, i.e., high in the morning and low in the afternoon, mostly related to evolution of atmospheric mixing heights and local anthropogenic activities. Conversely, sulfur showed elevated levels in the afternoon, suggesting conversion of gaseous sulfur dioxide to particulate sulphate was enhanced by increased ambient temperatures. Five source factors were resolved using the US EPA positive matrix factorization model, including three traffic-related sources (i.e., vehicular exhaust, crustal dust, and vehicle tire and brake wear factors) and two industrial sources (i.e., coal/heavy oil burning and metal processing factors). Overall, the three traffic-related sources were mostly local and contributed to 47% of the total elemental concentrations, while the two industrial sources may originate from regional/transboundary sources and contributed to 53%. Measures to control both local traffic emissions and regional/transboundary industrial sources would help reduce levels of PM_2.5-bound elements in Windsor. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Michigan-Ontario Ozone Source Experiment (MOOSE))

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Identification of Patterns and Relationships of Jet Stream Position with Flood-Prone Precipitation in Iran during 2006–2019

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Iman Rousta

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Abazar Esmaeili Mahmoudabadi

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(2), 351; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14020351 - 10 Feb 2023

Viewed by 924

Abstract

Jet streams are atmospheric phenomena that operate on a synoptic scale and can intensify the descending/ascending conditions of the air at the lower levels of the atmosphere. This study aimed to identify the patterns and location of the jet stream in southwest Asia [...] Read more.

Jet streams are atmospheric phenomena that operate on a synoptic scale and can intensify the descending/ascending conditions of the air at the lower levels of the atmosphere. This study aimed to identify the patterns and location of the jet stream in southwest Asia during the days of widespread rainfall in Iran based on two criteria: “highest frequency of stations involved” and “maximum cumulative amount on the day of peak rainfall”. For this purpose, the daily precipitation data for 42 synoptic stations in Iran during the period 2006–2019 from the Meteorological Organization of Iran, the daily data at 500 hPa Geopotential Height (HGT), and U and V wind components at 500 and 300 hPa from NCEP/NCAR were gathered. Synoptic patterns were obtained based on daily precipitation data, daily maps at HGT 500 hPa, and U and V wind components at 500 and 300 hPa. The analysis of patterns showed that the position of precipitation cores is associated with the position and extension of jet stream centers at 300 hPa in winter, spring, and autumn. The main position of jet stream cores during flood-causing rainfall at 300 hPa was over the northern part of Saudi Arabia, the Mesopotamia basin, and southern Iran. This position seems to have provided the conditions for the convergence of the earth’s surface and the divergence of the atmosphere for the easy passage of moisture from the Red Sea, Aden Sea, and the Persian Gulf, and in the second rank, the Mediterranean Sea and the Arabian Sea. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Improving Extreme Precipitation Simulation)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Urban Heat Risk: Protocols for Mapping and Implications for Colombo, Sri Lanka

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(2), 343; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14020343 - 08 Feb 2023

Viewed by 1111

Abstract

Global and urban-induced local warming lead to increasing heat risk in cities. The rapid increase in urban population, weak infrastructure, poverty, as well as an ageing population, make the risk more acute in developing cities. However, heat risk is not uniformly distributed and [...] Read more.

Global and urban-induced local warming lead to increasing heat risk in cities. The rapid increase in urban population, weak infrastructure, poverty, as well as an ageing population, make the risk more acute in developing cities. However, heat risk is not uniformly distributed and a detailed exploration of the link between urban characteristics and local variations in heat risk is needed to aid targeted mitigation. In this paper, we demonstrate a fine-grained heat risk map using existing data combined with expert opinion in a humid tropical city (Colombo, Sri Lanka) with the objective of highlighting the relative heat risk as a function of physical and socioeconomic conditions across the city. We then simulate the effects of shading and greening on the ‘high’ heat risk areas, and greening on the ‘low’ heat risk areas, to show that a combined approach will be needed to reduce risk at ‘high’ risk areas. In ‘low’ risk areas, maintaining the green cover is crucial to heat risk reduction. The paper, thus, establishes a protocol for detailed heat risk mapping with existing data and points to the differing importance of shading and greening in different parts of the city, thus, showing where, and to what extent, mitigation actions could be beneficial. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biometeorology)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Airglow Observation and Statistical Analysis of Plasma Bubbles over China

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(2), 341; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14020341 - 08 Feb 2023

Viewed by 640

Abstract

Airglow observation is a very effective method to investigate plasma bubbles, and can obtain their horizontal structure. In this study, the image processing method was used to process airglow data, including image enhancement, azimuth correction, and image projection, and the clear image products [...] Read more.

Airglow observation is a very effective method to investigate plasma bubbles, and can obtain their horizontal structure. In this study, the image processing method was used to process airglow data, including image enhancement, azimuth correction, and image projection, and the clear image products of equatorial plasma bubbles (EPBs) were obtained. Based on the optical data of the airglow imager in Hainan, we investigated the main optical features of EPBs, and statistically analyzed the occurrence of EPBs from September 2014 to August 2015. The observation results show that EPB exhibits plume-shaped structures, usually tilting westward, and EPB extends to a long distance along the geomagnetic field lines. It is found that the west wall of EPB is relatively stable, while there are some bifurcations on the east wall of EPB, and the bifurcation of EPB becomes more pronounced with time. Moreover, the spatial scale of EPB gradually increases with time, which is about several hundred kilometers, and the drift velocity of EPB is in the range of 40–130 m/s (+/−20 m/s). The statistical results show that EPBs mainly occur in the months of September to November and February to April, with a higher occurrence rate. In terms of seasonal occurrence, EPBs tend to appear more frequently in spring and autumn, and the occurrence rate of EPBs is relatively low in winter and summer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ionospheric Science and Ionosonde Applications)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Identification of Large-Scale Travelling Ionospheric Disturbances (LSTIDs) Based on Digisonde Observations

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Ioanna Tsagouri

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Anna Belehaki

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Konstantinos Koutroumbas

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Konstantinos Tziotziou

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Themistocles Herekakis

Atmosphere 2023, 14(2), 331; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14020331 - 07 Feb 2023

Viewed by 884

Abstract

In this paper we analyze Digisonde observations obtained in the European region to specify the effects of large-scale travelling ionospheric disturbances (LSTIDs) on the ionospheric characteristics that define the conditions in the bottomside ionosphere. While this type of disturbances affects all frequency ranges [...] Read more.

In this paper we analyze Digisonde observations obtained in the European region to specify the effects of large-scale travelling ionospheric disturbances (LSTIDs) on the ionospheric characteristics that define the conditions in the bottomside ionosphere. While this type of disturbances affects all frequency ranges in the F region, the most pronounced effect is detected in the foF2 critical frequency, where the density is the highest. During LSTID activity, a significant uplifting of the F2 layer is observed to accompany an oscillation pattern in the foF2. Concurrent variations in the height of the peak electron density hmF2 and the corresponding scale height, Hm are also observed. These findings are used to propose a new methodology for the identification of LSTIDs, comprising a combination of different criteria. The efficiency of the proposed methodology is tested at middle latitudes during geomagnetically quiet and disturbed intervals as well as during time periods of lower atmosphere forcing affecting the ionosphere. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ionospheric Science and Ionosonde Applications)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Thunderstorm Ground Enhancements Measured on Aragats and Progress of High-Energy Physics in the Atmosphere

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Ashot Chilingarian

Atmosphere 2023, 14(2), 300; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14020300 - 02 Feb 2023

Viewed by 634

Abstract

High-energy physics in the atmosphere (HEPA) has undergone an intense reformation in the last decade. Correlated measurements of particle fluxes modulated by strong atmospheric electric fields, simultaneous measurements of the disturbances of the near-surface electric fields and lightning location, and registration of various [...] Read more.

High-energy physics in the atmosphere (HEPA) has undergone an intense reformation in the last decade. Correlated measurements of particle fluxes modulated by strong atmospheric electric fields, simultaneous measurements of the disturbances of the near-surface electric fields and lightning location, and registration of various meteorological parameters on the Earth have led to a better understanding of the complex processes in the terrestrial atmosphere. The cooperation of cosmic rays and atmospheric physics has led to the development of models for the origin of particle bursts recorded on the Earth’s surface, estimation of vertical and horizontal profiles of electric fields in the lower atmosphere, recovery of electron and gamma ray energy spectra, the muon deceleration effect, etc. The main goal of this review is to demonstrate how the measurements performed at the Aragats cosmic ray observatory led to new results in atmospheric physics. We monitored particle fluxes around the clock using synchronized networks of advanced sensors that recorded and stored multidimensional data in databases with open, fast, and reliable access. Visualization and statistical analysis of particle data from hundreds of measurement channels disclosed the structure and strength of the atmospheric electric fields and explained observed particle bursts. Consequent solving of direct and inverse problems of cosmic rays revealed the modulation effects that the atmospheric electric field has on cosmic ray fluxes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Upper Atmosphere)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Hydrometeorological Hazards on Crop Production in the State of Veracruz, Mexico

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Ofelia Andrea Valdés-Rodríguez

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Fernando Salas-Martínez

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Olivia Margarita Palacios-Wassenaar

Atmosphere 2023, 14(2), 287; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14020287 - 31 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1016

Abstract

Hydrometeorological hazards are considered the most important phenomena affecting crop production in the Eastern regions of Mexico, where the State of Veracruz is located. However, more information about their consequences on these sites needs to be studied. This research aims to determine the [...] Read more.

Hydrometeorological hazards are considered the most important phenomena affecting crop production in the Eastern regions of Mexico, where the State of Veracruz is located. However, more information about their consequences on these sites needs to be studied. This research aims to determine the effects of hydrometeorological phenomena on the most important crops cultivated in the State of Veracruz. The methodology involved analyzing the State’s crop production database from 2001 to 2020 and comparing this data with the National Hydrometeorological Disaster Declarations database. Multivariable correlation analysis and geographic information systems were applied to geographically analyze 42 rainfed crops plus the five most valuable ones in the State to determine their production related to climatic phenomena. The results found that the most affected crops are corn, soy, sorghum, beans, and rice, with more than 10,000 lost hectares. Droughts caused total damage to corn, soy, and beans and decreased productivity in corn, orange, lemon, wheat, coffee, and sesame. For the most valuable crops, tropical cyclones caused the highest production decrements in corn, sugar cane, and pineapple, while droughts caused the same effects in lemon and orange. We conclude that tropical cyclones are the most critical phenomena negatively impacting Veracruz, with high implications on the agrifood system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agrometeorology, Agricultural Water Management and Impacts of Extreme Events)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Atmospheric Response to EEP during Geomagnetic Disturbances

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(2), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14020273 - 30 Jan 2023

Viewed by 1434

Abstract

Energetic electron precipitation (EEP) is associated with solar activity and space weather and plays an important role in the Earth’s polar atmosphere. Energetic electrons from the radiation belt precipitate into the atmosphere during geomagnetic disturbances and cause additional ionization rates in the polar [...] Read more.

Energetic electron precipitation (EEP) is associated with solar activity and space weather and plays an important role in the Earth’s polar atmosphere. Energetic electrons from the radiation belt precipitate into the atmosphere during geomagnetic disturbances and cause additional ionization rates in the polar middle atmosphere. These induced atmospheric ionization rates lead to the formation of radicals in ion-molecular reactions at the heights of the mesosphere and upper stratosphere with the formation of reactive compounds of odd nitrogen NOy and odd hydrogen HOx groups. These compounds are involved in catalytic reactions that destroy the ozone. In this paper, we present the calculation of atmospheric ionization rates during geomagnetic disturbances using reconstructed spectra of electron precipitation from balloon observations; estimation of ozone destruction during precipitation events using one-dimensional photochemical radiation-convective models, taking into account both parameterization and ion chemistry; as well as provide an estimation of electron density during these periods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Upper Atmosphere)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Wildfires Impact Assessment on PM Levels Using Generalized Additive Mixed Models

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Atmosphere 2023, 14(2), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14020231 - 24 Jan 2023

Viewed by 962

Abstract

Wildfires are relevant sources of PM emissions and can have an important impact on air pollution and human health. In this study, we examine the impact of wildfire PM emissions on the Piemonte (Italy) air quality regional monitoring network using a Generalized Additive [...] Read more.

Wildfires are relevant sources of PM emissions and can have an important impact on air pollution and human health. In this study, we examine the impact of wildfire PM emissions on the Piemonte (Italy) air quality regional monitoring network using a Generalized Additive Mixed Model. The model is implemented with daily PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 concentrations sampled for 8 consecutive years at each monitoring site as the response variable. Meteorological data retrieved from the ERA5 dataset and the observed burned area data stored in the Carabinieri Forest Service national database are used in the model as explanatory variables. Spline functions for predictive variables and smooths for multiple meteorological variables’ interactions improved the model performance and reduced uncertainty levels. The model estimates are in good agreement with the observed PM data: adjusted R² range was 0.63–0.80. GAMMs showed rather satisfactory results in order to capture the wildfires contribution: some severe PM pollution episodes in the study area due to wildfire air emissions caused peak daily levels up to 87.3 µg/m³ at the Vercelli PM₁₀ site (IT1533A) and up to 67.7 µg/m³ at the Settimo Torinese PM_2.5 site (IT1130A). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Air Quality, Health and Environmental Impact Assessment)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceCommunication

First Detection of Global Ionospheric Disturbances Associated with the Most Powerful Gamma Ray Burst GRB221009A

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Sujay Pal

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Yasuhide Hobara

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Alexander Shvets

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Peter Wilhelm Schnoor

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Masashi Hayakawa

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Oleksandr Koloskov

Atmosphere 2023, 14(2), 217; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14020217 - 20 Jan 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1040

Abstract

We present the first report of global ionospheric disturbances due to the most powerful Gamma Ray Burst GRB221009A occurred on 9 October 2022. Very Low Frequency (VLF) and Low Frequency (LF) sub-ionospheric radio signals are used to diagnose the effect of the GRB [...] Read more.

We present the first report of global ionospheric disturbances due to the most powerful Gamma Ray Burst GRB221009A occurred on 9 October 2022. Very Low Frequency (VLF) and Low Frequency (LF) sub-ionospheric radio signals are used to diagnose the effect of the GRB on the lower ionosphere. Both daytime and nighttime effects are analyzed in VLF and LF bands. The magnitude of VLF signal perturbations varied with the propagation condition (day/night), path length, and frequency of the signal. The recovery times for the VLF/LF signals to get back to their pre-GRB levels varied from 2–60 min. Radio signals reflected from the E-region ionosphere for nighttime VLF signals and daytime LF signals showed greater effects compared to the daytime VLF signals reflected from the lower parts of the D-region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Upper Atmosphere)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Air Quality at Ponta Delgada City (Azores) Is Unaffected so Far by Growing Cruise Ship Transit in Recent Years

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Filipe Bernardo

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Patrícia Garcia

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Armindo Rodrigues

Atmosphere 2023, 14(1), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14010188 - 16 Jan 2023

Viewed by 1103

Abstract

The ease of travel allowed by contemporary means of long-range transportation has brought increasingly higher numbers of visitors to remote and relatively undisturbed insular territories. In a framework of environmental conservation of the natural patrimony, sustainably accommodating touristic flooding and the associated polluting [...] Read more.

The ease of travel allowed by contemporary means of long-range transportation has brought increasingly higher numbers of visitors to remote and relatively undisturbed insular territories. In a framework of environmental conservation of the natural patrimony, sustainably accommodating touristic flooding and the associated polluting footprint poses a demanding challenge. Over the past decade, Ponta Delgada, the largest city of the mid-Atlantic Azores archipelago, has become a hotspot for transatlantic cruise ship (CS) lines in spring and autumn. CSs are substantial contributors to the emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG), as well as hazardous sulphur (SO_x) and nitrogen (NO_x) oxides. It is hereby retrospectively investigated whether the background levels of air pollutants were raised following the CS influx at Ponta Delgada, which conventionally displays great air quality. The daily CS traffic at the local harbor was associated with the daily concentrations of air pollutants (SO₂, O₃, NO₂, NO_x, PM₁₀ and PM_2.5), monitored by the local urban background monitoring station (~1.3 km northwards). Exceedances above daily legislated limits from 2013 until 2020 only occurred sporadically for PM₁₀ and PM_2.5, often during episodes of natural dust storms. No major correlation was found between CS parameters with the recorded values of pollutants, although a noticeable signal of NO_X increase of southern origin is observed during spring days with CS presence. Daily data suggest CS influx has not strongly influenced background air quality. A near-source, real-time monitoring network should be implemented in the city to provide the necessary spatial and temporal resolution for tracking short-term fluctuations in air pollutants during CS arrivals and departures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Air Pollution, Health Effects Indicators, Exposome, and One Health)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Experimental Verification of Mist Cooling Effect in Front of Air-Conditioning Condenser Unit, Open Space, and Bus Stop

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Sae Kyogoku

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Hideki Takebayashi

Atmosphere 2023, 14(1), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14010177 - 13 Jan 2023

Viewed by 1004

Abstract

Mist spraying is a technique for locally lowering air temperature by spraying fine mist into the air and using the latent heat of evaporation immediately after spraying. This study focuses on the conditions under which mist spraying contributes to the increase in sensible [...] Read more.

Mist spraying is a technique for locally lowering air temperature by spraying fine mist into the air and using the latent heat of evaporation immediately after spraying. This study focuses on the conditions under which mist spraying contributes to the increase in sensible heat release from the human body, using the ratio of air temperature decrease and humidity increase in the space where mist is sprayed. From the measurement results in front of the air-conditioning condenser unit, humidity increased by about 10 g/kg(DA), while air temperature decreased by about 10 °C. From the measurement results in an open space in a park, air temperature decreased by about 0.5 to 1 °C within 2 m of the mist spray and humidity increased by about 0.5 to 1 g/kg(DA) at the height of the mist spray, regardless of the distance from the mist spray. From the measurement results at semi-open bus stops, air temperature decreased slightly to 1 °C and humidity increased slightly to 1 g/kg(DA) under low-wind conditions. Unfortunately, the measured results of air temperature decrease in relation to humidity increase, which the human body perceives as cooler, were not available. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Microclimate: Thermal Comfort, Air Quality and Green Building as Drivers of Healthy Urban Design)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Significant Increases in Wet Nighttime and Daytime–Nighttime Compound Heat Waves in China from 1961 to 2020

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Xi Chen

Atmosphere 2023, 14(1), 178; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14010178 - 13 Jan 2023

Viewed by 643

Abstract

Heat waves (HWs) with high humidity are dangerous to human health. However, existing studies on different types of HWs considering the effect of humidity are still limited. This study defines three types of wet summer HWs (that is, wet independent daytime and nighttime [...] Read more.

Heat waves (HWs) with high humidity are dangerous to human health. However, existing studies on different types of HWs considering the effect of humidity are still limited. This study defines three types of wet summer HWs (that is, wet independent daytime and nighttime HWs and wet daytime-nighttime compound HWs) and investigates their spatial-temporal changes across China during 1961–2020. Results show significant upward trends of wet nighttime and compound HWs in terms of frequency, occurring days, duration, intensity and spatial extent, while changes for wet daytime HWs are weak and insignificant in nearly all sub-regions of China except for southwest and eastern northwest China. Compared with wet compound and daytime HWs, wet nighttime HWs accompanied by more elevated relative humidity exhibit larger growth rates in frequency, occurring days, duration and affected areas. Additionally, most wet nighttime and compound HWs with the longest duration and/or the maximum intensity are found to occur after the mid-1990s, compared to fewer than half for wet daytime HWs. Our findings emphasize the prominent intensifying trends in wet nighttime HWs across China for the last 60 years, and suggest more efforts on exploring humid HWs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biometeorology)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Estimation of the Number of Sprites Observed over Japan in 5.5 Years Using Lightning Data

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Maomao Duan

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Takanori Sakamoto

Atmosphere 2023, 14(1), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14010105 - 03 Jan 2023

Viewed by 522

Abstract

This study is based on 5.5 years of continuous observation of sprites from Sagamihara, Japan. Up to February 2022, we detected 537 sprites and found that the most significant number of sprites were observed during the winter (303 sprites); on the other hand, [...] Read more.

This study is based on 5.5 years of continuous observation of sprites from Sagamihara, Japan. Up to February 2022, we detected 537 sprites and found that the most significant number of sprites were observed during the winter (303 sprites); on the other hand, there were only 46 sprites in summer. The hourly distribution of the number of observed sprites peaked at midnight JST (15:00 and 16:00 UTC). To understand the seasonal and the hourly distribution of sprites, we estimate the number of sprites considering the energy and the polarity of lightning, the temporal changes of surrounding environments of sprites, and the conditions for generating sprites. We found that the energy of lightning, the monthly ratio of a positive cloud-to-ground discharge, and the hourly change in the electron number density are essential factors to match the observed sprite distributions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Upper Atmosphere)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Atmospheric Effects of Magnetosheath Jets

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Alexei V. Dmitriev

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Alla V. Suvorova

Atmosphere 2023, 14(1), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos14010045 - 26 Dec 2022

Viewed by 654

Abstract

We report effects in the upper high-latitude atmosphere related to the interaction of fast magnetosheath plasma streams, so-called jets, with the dayside magnetopause. The jets were observed by THEMIS mission in the dayside magnetosphere during a quiet day on 12 July 2009. It [...] Read more.

We report effects in the upper high-latitude atmosphere related to the interaction of fast magnetosheath plasma streams, so-called jets, with the dayside magnetopause. The jets were observed by THEMIS mission in the dayside magnetosphere during a quiet day on 12 July 2009. It was found that the jet interaction was accompanied by strong localized compression and penetration of suprathermal magnetosheath plasma inside the dayside magnetosphere. The compression caused prominent magnetic variations with amplitudes up to 100 nT observed by ground-based magnetic networks SuperMAG and CARISMA. The magnetic variations were also visible in the geomagnetic Dst and AE indices. The jets also resulted in intense precipitation of the suprathermal ions with energies < 10 keV and energetic electrons with energies > 30 keV observed by low-altitude NOAA/POES satellites in a wide longitudinal range. The precipitations produced enhancements of ionization with an amplitude of ~1 TECU (~30% in relative units) and intensification of the ionospheric E and F1 layers as observed in the FORMOSAT-3/COSMIC misson. The enhanced ionization in the upper atmosphere might affect radio communication and navigation in the high-latitude regions. These results also provide new insight into the contribution of magnetospheric forcing to day-to-day ionospheric variability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Upper Atmosphere)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Evaluating Agronomic Onset Definitions in Senegal through Crop Simulation Modeling

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Atmosphere 2022, 13(12), 2122; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos13122122 - 17 Dec 2022

Viewed by 774

Abstract

Rainfed agriculture in Senegal is heavily affected by weather-related risks, particularly timing of start/end of the rainy season. For climate services in agriculture, the National Meteorological Agency (ANACIM) of Senegal has defined an onset of rainy season based on the rainfall. In the [...] Read more.

Rainfed agriculture in Senegal is heavily affected by weather-related risks, particularly timing of start/end of the rainy season. For climate services in agriculture, the National Meteorological Agency (ANACIM) of Senegal has defined an onset of rainy season based on the rainfall. In the field, however, farmers do not necessarily follow the ANACIM’s onset definition. To close the gap between the parallel efforts by a climate information producer (i.e., ANACIM) and its actual users in agriculture (e.g., farmers), it is desirable to understand how the currently available onset definitions are linked to the yield of specific crops. In this study, we evaluated multiple onset definitions, including rainfall-based and soil-moisture-based ones, in terms of their utility in sorghum production using the DSSAT–Sorghum model. The results show that rainfall-based definitions are highly variable year to year, and their delayed onset estimation could cause missed opportunities for higher yields with earlier planting. Overall, soil-moisture-based onset dates determined by a crop simulation model produced yield distributions closer to the ones by semi-optimal planting dates than the other definitions, except in a relatively wet southern location. The simulated yields, particularly based on the ANACIM’s onset definition, showed statistically significant differences from the semi-optimal yields for a range of percentiles (25th, 50th, 75th, and 90th) and the means of the yield distributions in three locations. The results emphasize that having a good definition and skillful forecasts of onset is critical to improving the management of risks of crop production in Senegal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Toward Better Understanding and Prediction of Monsoon Onset and Withdrawal for Agricultural Sectors)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Indoor Thermal Environment in Different Generations of Naturally Ventilated Public Residential Buildings in Singapore

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and

Atmosphere 2022, 13(12), 2118; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos13122118 - 16 Dec 2022

Viewed by 1116

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate and compare the indoor air velocities and thermal environment inside different generations of public residential buildings developed by the Housing and Development Board (HDB) of Singapore and analyze the impact of façade design on the indoor thermal environment. [...] Read more.

This study aims to evaluate and compare the indoor air velocities and thermal environment inside different generations of public residential buildings developed by the Housing and Development Board (HDB) of Singapore and analyze the impact of façade design on the indoor thermal environment. To achieve this goal, several case studies were carried out, namely, five typical HDB blocks built in different generations from the 1970s to recent years. Firstly, these five blocks with different façade design features were simulated to obtain the indoor air temperatures for both window-closed and window-open scenarios by using the EnergyPlus V22.2.0 (U.S. Department of Energy) and Design-Builder v6 software(DesignBuilder Software Ltd, Stroud, Gloucs, UK). Meanwhile, the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were conducted to obtain the area-weighted wind velocities in the corresponding zones to evaluate the indoor thermal comfort. Accordingly, the effects of façade design on indoor air temperatures under both the window-closed and window-open conditions were compared and analyzed. Positive correlations between the facades’ window-to-wall ratio (WWR) and the residential envelope transmittance value (RETV) and T_a were confirmed with statistical significance at a 0.05 level. Furthermore, the indoor thermal comfort based on the wind open scenarios was also investigated. The results indicate that the thermal environment can be greatly improved by implementing proper façade design strategies as well as opening the windows, which could result in an average 3.2 °C reduction in T_a. Finally, some principles were proposed for the façade design of residential buildings in tropical regions with similar climate conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Materials, Technologies, and Methods for the Building Indoor Comfort)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Statistical Analysis of Sporadic-E Characteristics Associated with GNSS Radio Occultation Phase and Amplitude Scintillations

by

Daniel J. Emmons

,

Dong L. Wu

and

Nimalan Swarnalingam

Atmosphere 2022, 13(12), 2098; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos13122098 - 14 Dec 2022

Viewed by 1200

Abstract

Statistical GNSS-RO measurements of phase and amplitude scintillation are analyzed at the mid-latitudes in the local summer for a 100 km altitude. These conditions are known to contain frequent sporadic-E, and the S

_{4}

-

σ_{ϕ}

trends provide insight into the statistical [...] Read more.

Statistical GNSS-RO measurements of phase and amplitude scintillation are analyzed at the mid-latitudes in the local summer for a 100 km altitude. These conditions are known to contain frequent sporadic-E, and the S

_{4}

-

σ_{ϕ}

trends provide insight into the statistical distributions of the sporadic-E parameters. Joint two-dimensional S

_{4}

-

σ_{ϕ}

histograms are presented, showing roughly linear trends until the S

_{4}

saturates near 0.8. To interpret the measurements and understand the sporadic-E contributions, 10,000 simulations of RO signals perturbed by sporadic-E layers are performed using length, intensity, and vertical thickness distributions from previous studies, with the assumption that the sporadic-E layer acts as a Gaussian lens. Many of the key trends observed in the measurement histograms are present in the simulations, providing a key for understanding the complex mapping between layer characteristics and impacts on the GNSS-RO signals. Additionally, the inclusion of Kolmogorov turbulence and a diffusion-limited threshold on the lens strength/(vertical thickness)

^{2}

ratio helps to make the layers more physically realistic and improves agreement with the observations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Ionosphere Observation and Investigation)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Outdoor Human Thermal Comfort along Bike Paths in Balneário Camboriú/SC, Brazil

by

Luana Writzl

,

Cassio Arthur Wollmann

,

Iago Turba Costa

,

João Paulo Assis Gobo

,

Salman Shooshtarian

and

Andreas Matzarakis

Atmosphere 2022, 13(12), 2092; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos13122092 - 12 Dec 2022

Viewed by 799

Abstract

This research is concerned with understanding the degree of human thermal (dis)comfort in connection with the various microclimates present in the vicinity of bike trails in Balneário Camboriú/SC, Brazil, throughout the summer. Local Climate Zones were determined using the Sky View Factor and [...] Read more.

This research is concerned with understanding the degree of human thermal (dis)comfort in connection with the various microclimates present in the vicinity of bike trails in Balneário Camboriú/SC, Brazil, throughout the summer. Local Climate Zones were determined using the Sky View Factor and were identified along research routes and schedules at 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on a subtropical summer day (14 January 2022). Data were collected with weather devices attached to the bicycle, measuring air temperature, relative humidity, and globe temperature, from which the mean radiant temperature was calculated. The PET and UTCI indices were used to assess outdoor thermal comfort in the summer. The findings revealed that at 9:00 a.m., the eastern half of the city had a higher tendency for thermal discomfort; however, at 4:00 p.m., this same location had thermal comfort for users along bike routes. At 4:00 p.m., the PET index indicated that 24% of the bike paths were pleasant, and the UTCI index indicated that 100% of them were in thermal comfort. At 9:00 a.m., the majority of the city was under discomfort conditions. The index values reflect the morning time, and the study shows that there is now a negative correlation between the SVF and the indexes, which means that the greater the SVF computations, the lower the values are. The PET and UTCI indices revealed a positive association in the afternoon period: The greater the SVF values, the higher the PET and UTCI indices. Further research should be conducted in the future because many parameters, such as construction, position, and urban (im)permeability, as well as sea breeze and solar radiation, can have a significant impact on outdoor human thermal comfort in Balneário Camboriú, and when combined with the type of LCZ and the SVF, it is possible to understand how all of these active systems interact and form microclimates that are beneficial to bike path users. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermo-Hygrometric Comfort in Outdoor Environments and Its Technological, Environmental and Health Applications)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Tidal Structures in the Mesosphere and Lower Thermosphere and Their Solar Cycle Variations

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Atmosphere 2022, 13(12), 2036; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos13122036 - 04 Dec 2022

Viewed by 1080

Abstract

We studied the correlations between the migrating and non-migrating tides and solar cycle in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere (MLT) regions between 60

°

S and 60

°

N, which are in LAT-LON Earth coordinates, by analyzing the simulation datasets from [...] Read more.

We studied the correlations between the migrating and non-migrating tides and solar cycle in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere (MLT) regions between 60

°

S and 60

°

N, which are in LAT-LON Earth coordinates, by analyzing the simulation datasets from the thermosphere and ionosphere extension of the Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model (WACCM-X). A least squares fitting method was utilized to obtain the daily mean migrating tides and non-migrating tides. The Pearson linear correlation coefficient was used to analyze the correlations between tides and solar activity. Our analysis shows that the negative correlations between tides and solar activity are mostly impacted by the first symmetrical structure of the tidal modes for both migrating and non-migrating components. The coefficient of molecular thermal conductivity for the first symmetrical structure is small at low solar flux, so the tides dissipate more slowly when the F10.7 cm radio flux level is low. Thus, the amplitudes of tidal variations under a solar minimum condition are larger than those under a solar maximum condition. The correlation between tides and solar activity could also be influenced by some other factors, such as geomagnetic activity and the density of carbon dioxide

({CO}_{2})

on Earth. The tidal variations can be influenced by westward background wind, which grows stronger as geomagnetic activity rises. Further, dissipation of the tides decreases because the heat conduction and molecular viscosity are weakened in the cooling thermosphere caused by increasing

{CO}_{2}

, which results in larger tidal amplitudes under the solar maximum condition. It is found that the correlations between tides and solar cycle vary at different altitudes and latitudes. The negative correlations are most possibly influenced by the first symmetrical structure of tidal variations and may also be impacted by geomagnetic activity. The positive correlations are impacted by the density of

{CO}_{2}

. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structure and Dynamics of Mesosphere and Lower Thermosphere)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Reducing Particle Exposure and SARS-CoV-2 Risk in Built Environments through Accurate Virtual Twins and Computational Fluid Dynamics

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,

,

Charles M. A. Luzzato

and

Jonathan Jilesen

Atmosphere 2022, 13(12), 2032; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos13122032 - 03 Dec 2022

Viewed by 602

Abstract

The World Health Organization has pointed out that airborne transmission via aerosol particles can be a strong vector for the spread of SARS-CoV-2. Protecting occupants from infectious diseases or harmful particulate matter (PM) in general can be challenging. While experimentally outlining the detailed [...] Read more.

The World Health Organization has pointed out that airborne transmission via aerosol particles can be a strong vector for the spread of SARS-CoV-2. Protecting occupants from infectious diseases or harmful particulate matter (PM) in general can be challenging. While experimentally outlining the detailed flow of PM in rooms may require complex setups, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations can provide insights into improving the safety of the built environment and the most effective positioning of air-purifying devices. While previous studies have typically leveraged Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) approaches for predicting particle propagation, the turbulence length scales accurately captured in these simulations may not be sufficient to provide a realistic spread and the mixing of particles under the effects of forced convection. In this paper, we experimentally validate a Lattice Boltzmann very large eddy simulation (VLES) approach including particle modeling. We also demonstrate how this simulation approach can be used to improve the effectiveness of air filtration devices in realistic office environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Indoor Air Cleaners for Particulate, Microbiological and Gaseous Pollutants)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Twelve-Year Cycle in the Cloud Top Winds Derived from VMC/Venus Express and UVI/Akatsuki Imaging

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Atmosphere 2022, 13(12), 2023; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos13122023 - 01 Dec 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 834

Abstract

We present joint analysis of the UV (365 nm) images captured by the cameras on board ESA’s Venus Express and JAXA’s Akatsuki spacecraft. These observations enabled almost continuous characterization of the cloud top circulation over the longest period of time so far (2006–2021). [...] Read more.

We present joint analysis of the UV (365 nm) images captured by the cameras on board ESA’s Venus Express and JAXA’s Akatsuki spacecraft. These observations enabled almost continuous characterization of the cloud top circulation over the longest period of time so far (2006–2021). More than 46,000 wind vectors were derived from tracking the UV cloud features and revealed changes in the atmospheric circulation with the period of 12.5 ± 0.5 years. The zonal wind component is characterized by an annual mean of −98.6 ± 1.3 m/s and an amplitude of 10.0 ± 1.6 m/s. The mean meridional wind velocity is −2.3 ± 0.2 m/s and has an amplitude of 3.4 ± 0.3 m/s. Plausible physical explanations of the periodicity include both internal processes and external forcing. Both missions observed periodical changes in the UV albedo correlated with the circulation variability. This could result in acceleration or deceleration of the winds due to modulation of the deposition of the radiative energy in the clouds. The circulation can be also affected by the solar cycle that has a period of approximately 11 years with a large degree of deviation from the mean. The solar cycle correlated with the wind observations can probably influence both the radiative balance and chemistry of the mesosphere. The discovered periodicity in the cloud top circulation of Venus, and especially its similarity with the solar cycle, is strongly relevant to the study of exoplanets in systems with variable “suns”. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Planetary Atmospheres: From Solar System to Exoplanets)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Rainfall Simulations of High-Impact Weather in South Africa with the Conformal Cubic Atmospheric Model (CCAM)

by

Mary-Jane M. Bopape

,

Francois A. Engelbrecht

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,

,

Patience T. Mulovhedzi

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and

Atmosphere 2022, 13(12), 1987; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos13121987 - 28 Nov 2022

Viewed by 1172

Abstract

Warnings of severe weather with a lead time longer that two hours require the use of skillful numerical weather prediction (NWP) models. In this study, we test the performance of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) Conformal Cubic Atmospheric Model (CCAM) [...] Read more.

Warnings of severe weather with a lead time longer that two hours require the use of skillful numerical weather prediction (NWP) models. In this study, we test the performance of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) Conformal Cubic Atmospheric Model (CCAM) in simulating six high-impact weather events, with a focus on rainfall predictions in South Africa. The selected events are tropical cyclone Dineo (16 February 2017), the Cape storm (7 June 2017), the 2017 Kwa-Zulu Natal (KZN) floods (10 October 2017), the 2019 KZN floods (22 April 2019), the 2019 KZN tornadoes (12 November 2019) and the 2020 Johannesburg floods (5 October 2020). Three configurations of CCAM were compared: a 9 km grid length (MN9km) over southern Africa nudged within the Global Forecast System (GFS) simulations, and a 3 km grid length over South Africa (MN3km) nudged within the 9 km CCAM simulations. The last configuration is CCAM running with a grid length of 3 km over South Africa, which is nudged within the GFS (SN3km). The GFS is available with a grid length of

0.25

°, and therefore, the configurations allow us to test if there is benefit in the intermediate nudging at 9 km as well as the effects of resolution on rainfall simulations. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) station rainfall dataset is used for verification purposes. All three configurations of CCAM are generally able to capture the spatial pattern of rainfall associated with each of the events. However, the maximum rainfall associated with two of the heaviest rainfall events is underestimated by CCAM with more than 100 mm. CCAM simulations also have some shortcomings with capturing the location of heavy rainfall inland and along the northeast coast of the country. Similar shortcomings were found with other NWP models used in southern Africa for operational forecasting purposes by previous studies. CCAM generally simulates a larger rainfall area than observed, resulting in more stations reporting rainfall. Regarding the different configurations, they are more similar to one another than observations, however, with some suggestion that MN3km outperforms other configurations, in particular with capturing the most extreme events. The performance of CCAM in the convective scales is encouraging, and further studies will be conducted to identify areas of possible improvement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Precipitation Observations and Prediction)

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Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Selection of Plant Species for Particulate Matter Removal in Urban Environments by Considering Multiple Ecosystem (Dis)Services and Environmental Suitability

by

Samira Muhammad

,

Karen Wuyts

and

Roeland Samson

Atmosphere 2022, 13(12), 1960; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos13121960 - 24 Nov 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 847

Abstract

To select plant species for particulate matter (PM) removal from urban environments, it is important to consider the plant species’ ecosystem (dis)services and environmental suitability in addition to their effectiveness in PM removal. In this study, 61 plant species were ranked for PM [...] Read more.

To select plant species for particulate matter (PM) removal from urban environments, it is important to consider the plant species’ ecosystem (dis)services and environmental suitability in addition to their effectiveness in PM removal. In this study, 61 plant species were ranked for PM removal using three separate models: (i) leaf traits, (ii) leaf saturation isothermal remanent magnetization (SIRM), and (iii) ecosystem services and disservices. The plant species’ effectiveness in PM accumulation and the effective leaf traits were identified using leaf SIRM. In each model, plant species were assigned scores and weights for each criterion. The weighted average or the product (Π)-value was calculated for each plant species. The weighted average of each plant species was multiplied by the scores of leaf longevity and leaf area index (LAI) to scale up to a yearly basis and per unit of ground surface area. The preference ranking organization method for enrichment of evaluations (PROMETHEE) method was employed for the services and disservices model because of the lack of precise weights for the included criteria in the model. A scenario analysis was performed to determine a change in the ranking of plant species when the weights of the criteria were modified in the services and disservices model. The plant species with increased ecosystem services and reduced ecosystem disservices were Tilia cordata (Mill.), Tilia platyphyllos (Scop.), Alnus incana (L.), Acer campestre (L.), and Picea abies (L.). The findings of this study can be relevant to urban planners for recommending suitable choices of plant species for the development of urban green spaces. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Air Pollution, Health Effects Indicators, Exposome, and One Health)

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