Partic. vol. 20 pp. 69-79 (June 2015)
doi: 10.1016/j.partic.2014.09.001

Impact of meteorological conditions on a nine-day particulate matter pollution event observed in December 2013, Shanghai, China

Jianming Xu^a,*, Fengxia Yan^b, Ying Xie^a, Fengyun Wang^b, Jianbin Wu^a, Qingyan Fu^c

xjmdt@sina.com

Abstract

A severe particulate matter pollution event occurred in Shanghai from 1 to 9 December 2013. The mean hourly mass concentrations of PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ were 211.9 and 249.0 μg/m³, respectively. Reanalysis data, in situ, and remote-sensing measurements were used to examine the impacts of meteorological conditions on this event. It was found that the synoptic pattern of weak pressure, the reduced planetary boundary layer height, and the passage of two cold fronts were key factors causing the event. Four stages were identified during this event based on the evolution of its PM_2.5 levels and weather conditions. The highest concentration of PM_2.5 (602 μg/m³) was observed in stage 3. High PM_2.5 concentrations were closely associated with a low local ventilation index, with an average of 505 m²/s, as well as with the influx of pollutants from upstream, transported by the cold fronts.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

Particulate matter; PM_2.5; Pollution event; Planetary boundary layer; Cold front; Urban air pollution