Ozone Episodes in Northern and Western Iberia: Understanding and Quantifying the Sources and Transport Mechanisms by Integrated Process Analysis

Abstract

Ozone (O3) polluted air masses can impact regions of the Iberian Peninsula not traditionally studied, such as Northern and Western Iberia. As a contribution to a better understanding of O3 episodes’ origin, sources, and patterns, we simulated and analysed an O3 episode recorded in July 2016 all along Northern Iberia and Western Iberia, which was concurrent with a blocking anticyclone over the British Isles. We used WRF-CAMx models and the Integrated Process Rate analysis tool to determine and quantify the most important contributions to the O3 levels registered in rural areas. Preliminary results show that the high O3 levels registered at rural areas were caused by the entry, with sea-breezes, of aged pollutants from the coastline.