Preliminary Results from the Salt Lake City Valley Study

Summary

The Environmental Meteorology Program (EMP) component of the Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) Atmospheric Science Program conducted a field study in the Salt Lake City, Utah region during October 2000. The purpose of the study was to examine vertical mixing (VTMX) and transport processes to improve understanding of dispersion and diffusion of energy-related materials introduced to the lower atmosphere. The improved knowledge of these processes is incorporated into conceptual and numerical models to enhance prediction of air quality in urban areas and/or complex terrain.
Preliminary results from this study show the existence of strong stagnant cool air, which can eventually result in poor air quality within the Salt Lake City valley region. Additionally, there were heat island effects within the Salt Lake City urban environment at night that can impact urban flow of energy-related materials impacting air quality.