[ADEQ Forecasts] ADEQ Daily Air Quality Forecast for Thursday, September 03, 2009

[forecasts@lists.azdeq.gov]

For more information, please visit our Web page:
http://www.azdeq.gov/ensemble.pdf

For transportation alternatives:
http://www.valleymetro.org


Health message for Wednesday, September 02: Unusually sensitive people should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors. 
 
Health message for Thursday, September 03: Unusually sensitive people should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors. 


Synopsis and Discussion

*AN OZONE HEALTH WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT TODAY*

The major increase in local ozone levels that occurred on Tuesday helped to illustrate the impact of ozone accumulation versus production.  From Monday to Tuesday the fact that the highest 8-hourly average concentration rose eight parts per billion is much more significant than the identical increase in the highest hourly concentration.  Surface winds were mostly 10 mph or less valley-wide during the afternoon hours, with an easterly component present into the late afternoon at some locations.  At one point winds were westerly over the west Valley but light or calm elsewhere.  This had the effect of ozone pollution becoming "backed up" over the central and east Valley where highest readings subsequently occurred.  Since Valley AMDAR soundings indicate that a light then easterly wind regime exists up to 15K+', and since local ozone levels were rising rapidly this a.m., will leave the Health Watch intact despite a probable increase in clouds from the south later today.  Above average cloud cover is then expected the next few days as Hurricane - then Tropical Storm Jimena - sheds and accelerates moisture northward.  This, and a return of westerly afternoon winds, should help keep ozone levels in check.  

If you have any questions or comments regarding this forecast please contact:

Arizona Department of Environmental Quality
Office of Communications
1110 W. Washington St., Phoenix, AZ 85007
(602) 771-2215
ms15@azdeq.gov

 
 

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