Analysis of Regional Meteorology During the Ozone Episodes in the El Paso—Juarez Airshed in the Summer of 2017

A comprehensive planetary boundary layer (PBL) and other meteorological studies were performed in the El Paso-Juarez Airshed during the high ozone episodes that occurred during the summer of 2017. A total of 10 high ozone episodes were recorded throughout the summer, of which 4 consecutive episodes occurred in the month of June (June 4-7, 2017). This was followed by 3 consecutive low ozone episodes occurring June 11-13, 2017. Meteorological data, ozone data and oxides of nitrogen data for this study was obtained from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality’s (TCEQ) Continuous Ambient Monitoring Station (CAMS-12) located at the University of Texas, El Paso (UTEP) campus. PBL simulations were performed using different schemes of Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF). Ceilometer aerosol backscatter data from Vaisala ceilometer CL31 located at the UTEP campus was also used to investigate the evolution, vertical structure and influence of PBL during the high and low ozone days. This study examines meteorological conditions associated with regional ground level ozone and provides a better understanding of how the PBL influences the surface ozone and its transport in the region.