Monitoring Exceptional Pollution Events in Clark County, Nevada

Exceptional pollution events are linked to a variety of processes such as wildfires and wind-blown dust. These events can overwhelm typical strategies to curb airborne pollution, with significant potential repercussions for human health. Since 2020, Sonoma Technology researchers have been studying exceptional pollution events in Clark County, Nevada, a region that encompasses Las Vegas. <br>

The team is sampling volatile organic compounds, developing smoke and fire maps, and using atmospheric modeling to simulate the transport of smoke and particulates. In addition, the researchers are analyzing satellite imagery and other data products to assess the affected regions in Clark County. One goal of this work is to determine the likely driver(s) of exceptional pollution events, and the findings will inform county-wide planning efforts and communication efforts to both nearby residents and the media.