Analysis of dust pollution in arid regions using an index based on local and extra-local events

Abstract

Aim: The main goal of the current research is to analyze the temporal changes in air quality in these areas based on an index of both types of events called the Pollution Dust Storm Index.Material & Method: This study calculated the PDSI using the frequency of local and extra-local dust events. The Mann-Kendall test was used to evaluate the trend of temporal changes in this index at different time scales.Finding: The highest dust pollution in the analyzed statistical period belonged to the cities of Zahedan, Chabahar, Nehbandan, and Yazd, and the lowest air pollution was in Baft, Shahrood, and Shahrbabak stations. The significant incremental changes in dust events occurred for most of the stations in June. On a seasonal scale, maximum and minimum dust pollution occurred in spring and autumn, respectively. The increasing trend of dust occurrences in the spring season and their decreasing trend in the summer season was observed for most of the stations. Conclusion: The findings of evaluating the trend of changes in dust occurrences based on the PDSI index in dry areas of the country, which are affected by dust with different frequencies and intensities throughout the year, can be used to identify sensitive areas and provide necessary measures to prevent and reduce adverse effects caused by dust events.Innovation: In addition to local dust events, extra-local events also impact the air quality of dry areas. Analyzing changes in the PDSI based on both types of events can enhance our understanding of air quality in these regions. This study aims to analyze air pollution changes using this index, which has not been done before for dry areas. The findings can help identify areas with higher air pollution levels and lead to more effective solutions to improve air quality in arid regions.

Keywords

• changes trend
• dust pollution
• mann-kendall
• arid regions