An analysis of Ozone (O3) transport across Mississippi using trajectory mapping from 1999-2010

Ozone causes damage to human health, forest, agricultural crops and damage to materials (Tripathi et. Al 2010). Understanding the contributing factors to rise above EPA regulatory standards across the state of Mississippi can help improve economic and human health conditions. An ozone data base spanning from April-October from 1999-2010 was analyzed. Concentrations above 60ppb were defined as Ozone Action Days (OAD). Using NOAA HYSPLIT trajectory model, forward and backward 24-hr duration trajectories were analyzed at 10 meters, 250 meters, and 500 meters. The purpose of this study is to develop a categorical data base of trajectories to determine if similar trajectories all occur under the same meteorological conditions. With consistent patterns and similarities assumptions can be made to better improve ozone emissions and keep ozone levels below the EPA regulatory standards.