The influence of meteorological conditions on PM10 concentrations in Suceava City (North – Eastern Romania)

Abstract

Air quality evaluation is important for assessing the nature, concentration thresholds and environmental impacts of atmospheric pollution. Airborne pollutants are related to weather elements which affect their transport and diffusion patterns. Particulate matter concentrations (PM) often exceed the threshold values at which human health is severely affected, especially in urban areas. This paper presents the first assessment of PM₁₀ concentrations in the urban environment of North – Eastern Romania, at mid elevations, in relation to particular meteorological conditions. We hereby determine the influence of temperature, rainfall, humidity, atmospheric pressure and wind direction and speed on the concentrations of PM₁₀in the urban area of Suceava City, during the recent period (2008 – 2010). The results of our study have shown that the PM₁₀ concentrations were highest in the cold season, during cloudy days and in cases of temperature inversions. We also found that for our study area the overall PM₁₀ concentrations appear influenced to a great extent by wind at both maximum and average speed, and by precipitation. Our results were similar to other findings in the urban areas of South-Western Germany, South – Eastern  Spanish Mediterranean Basin and Turkey