Analyzing the Trends in Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) Changes Over a 20-Year Period (2001–2020): A Case Study of Alborz Province

Shaker, Mahdiyeh; Eskandari Damaneh, Hadi; Khosravi, Hassan

doi:10.61186/jeer.15.2.110

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Analyzing the Trends in Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) Changes Over a 20-Year Period (2001–2020): A Case Study of Alborz Province

Mahdiyeh Shaker

, Hadi Eskandari Damaneh

, Hassan Khosravi ^*

Department of Reclamation of Arid and Mountainous Regions, Faculty of Natural Resource, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran , hakhosravi@ut.ac.ir

Abstract: (507 Views)

1- Introduction
Dust storms are complex atmospheric phenomena that result from the interaction of various dynamic and physical processes within the atmosphere. These storms primarily occur in regions where conditions such as high wind speed, dry soil surfaces, and minimal or absent vegetation cover prevail. Dust storms can significantly impact local and global climates, as they contribute to the transport of suspended particles in the atmosphere, potentially leading to climatic changes, air quality degradation, and increased health risks for humans. This phenomenon is fundamental in arid and semi-arid regions, such as Alborz province, which faces specific climatic and geographical challenges. Alborz is characterized by its unique topography and climate, which create conditions that are conducive to the formation of dust storms. The province's location, altitude, and land cover play a crucial role in how dust storms develop and spread. In recent decades, the frequency and intensity of dust storms have been reported to increase across many parts of the Middle East and Central Asia. These changes are often linked to anthropogenic factors such as land degradation, deforestation, and excessive groundwater withdrawal. In Iran, particularly in Alborz province, growing urbanization and changing land-use patterns have exacerbated environmental sensitivity, making it more vulnerable to dust generation and transport. The rapid expansion of urban areas has led to the destruction of natural landscapes, thus diminishing the land's ability to retain moisture and vegetation, which is essential for mitigating dust storm formation. Furthermore, agricultural practices, including overgrazing and improper irrigation, contribute to soil erosion and degradation, making the region even more susceptible to dust storms. Given the regional implications for air quality, agriculture, and human health, it is essential to assess dust storm trends using reliable atmospheric data. By doing so, we can better understand the patterns and causes of dust storms and develop effective strategies to mitigate their impact. Collaborative efforts combining scientific research, policy-making, and community engagement are necessary to address these challenges comprehensively and protect the environment and public health.
2- Methodology
To analyze dust storm trends and their spatial distribution in Alborz province, satellite-derived Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) data were employed as a primary indicator of atmospheric dust concentration. AOD measures the extinction of solar radiation caused by aerosol particles in a column of the atmosphere and is a reliable proxy for assessing dust intensity and transport patterns. Data from 2001 to 2020 were collected, processed, and analyzed using remote sensing techniques and geographic information systems (GIS). This approach facilitated classifying AOD values into discrete classes representing varying dust concentrations, mapping their spatial coverage across the study area period.
3- Results
The temporal analysis of AOD data revealed a clear upward trend in atmospheric dust levels in Alborz province over the two-decade study period. In particular, the southern and southwestern regions of the province experienced a noticeable increase in AOD values. The annual analysis showed that between 2008 and 2011, AOD levels exhibited significant fluctuations, with the highest value recorded in 2009 at 0.4. In other years, values remained relatively elevated at 0.29 in 2008, 0.34 in 2010, and 0.29 in 2011, indicating persistent dust activity. Furthermore, the spatial distribution of AOD classes demonstrated dynamic shifts over time. While the areas covered by very low and moderately high AOD classes decreased, those in the very high AOD class expanded markedly. Specifically, the AOD class area grew from 3.01% of the province's surface in 2001 to 8.02% in 2020. This shift underscores a substantial intensification in the region's frequency and severity of dust storm events.
4- Discussion & Conclusions:
This study's findings indicate a concerning trend of rising dust storm activity in Alborz province, especially in the southern and southwestern regions. Multiple interconnected factors may contribute to this increase. Climate change has caused elevated temperatures and decreased precipitation, leading to drier soils and less vegetation cover, which heightens wind erosion potential. Rapid urban growth and unsustainable land use practices, including overgrazing and unregulated agricultural expansion, have intensified land degradation and desertification, creating favorable conditions for dust storm formation. The surge in very high AOD levels showcases the growing frequency of dust events and underscores a heightened environmental health risk for the province’s residents. Increased particulate matter levels worsen respiratory issues, lower life expectancy, and burden public health systems. Additionally, these trends pose challenges to infrastructure, agriculture, and water resources, calling for urgent policy action intervention. To tackle these challenges, it is crucial to implement integrated land management approaches that support vegetation restoration, soil conservation, and sustainable agriculture. Moreover, urban planning should include measures to mitigate dust, particularly in areas at risk. Continued long-term satellite remote sensing monitoring ought to be enhanced with ground-based observations for improved accuracy in assessments. In summary, the rising trend in AOD values and the expansion of high-dust zones in Alborz province clearly signify increasing risks of dust storms. This study offers valuable insights for environmental planners, policymakers, and researchers focused on air quality and public health. It emphasizes the necessity for further research into the underlying causes of dust activity and the creation of predictive models to anticipate future dust storm patterns amid changing climate and land-use scenarios.

Keywords: Dust storms, Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD), Alborz province, remote sensing, satellite imagery

Type of Study: Research |
Received: 2024/10/17

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