Factors Affecting PM10 Levels in the Atmosphere of the Industrial Area in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Data describing PM10 concentrations and some meteorological parameters (temperature, relative humidity and wind speeds) during January 2011-December 2011 were analyzed and evaluated. They were collected from an ambient air quality station in the industrial area in south Jeddah. The monthly and seasonal variations of PM10 concentrations and factors affecting them were evaluated. It was found that the daily average concentrations of PM10 ranged from 45 to 506 µg/m 3 with a mean value of 119 µg/m 3 during the period of study. Almost all the mean 24-h concentrations of PM10 exceeded the WHO air quality standards for maximum 24-h concentration (50 μg/m 3). The highest concentrations of PM10 were found in spring, whereas the lowest levels were detected in autumn season. The mean daily concentrations of PM10 were 120, 144, 116 and 89 µg/m 3 in winter, spring, summer and autumn, respectively. PM10 concentrations were relatively higher in weekdays than weekends during the different seasons. The weekdays/weekends concentration ratios were 1.18 (winter), 1.36 (spring), 1.41 (summer), 1.29 (autumn) and 1.32 (annual). PM10 concentrations were higher in dust storm compared to non-dust storm days. The dust storm /non-dust storm concentration ratios was 3.14.