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AirNow Fire and Smoke Map
Citation:
Evans, R., P. Dickerson, A. Holder, K. Barkjohn, A. Clements, S. Larkin, AND S. Illson. AirNow Fire and Smoke Map. Air sensor international conference, NA, California, May 11 - 13, 2022.
Impact/Purpose:
Interest and concern about air quality has grown in recent years especially during wildfires. Simultaneously, growth in the popularity and use of air sensors across the US has also occurred. However, with so many sources of sensor and governmental data it can be challenging for users to interpret. In this presentation we will share the methods behind incorporating the PurpleAir sensor data on the AirNow Fire and Smoke map and how this map is used to convey important information to the public. This abstract is for a presentation that will be presented to attendees of the Air Sensor International Conference May 11-13, 2022 in Pasadena, CA.
Description:
Data from particulate matter (PM) air sensors have become a valuable tool for broadening our understanding of air quality impacts from wildfire smoke and demonstrating the localized nature of smoke plumes. In 2020, the U.S. EPA, in conjunction with state, tribal and local air monitoring agencies and the U.S. Forest Service, initiated the Sensor Data Pilot on the AirNow Fire and Smoke map. This pilot displayed publicly available PurpleAir sensor data side-by-side with data from permanent and temporary ambient air quality monitors. Because PM sensor data are often biased compared to regulatory monitors, a correction equation was developed from a long-term sensor collocation across geographically diverse areas, spanning a wide range of PM concentrations. This correction was improved to include extremely high PM concentrations and validated with smoke-impacted collocations during the 2020 fire season. Data cleaning and quality control steps were developed to quality assure the sensor data. This presentation will provide an overview of the AirNow Fire and Smoke map and describe the sensor data processing approach that has enabled the addition of thousands of new air quality observations to help communities monitor smoke impacting their area. The presentation will focus on updates to Version 2 released in July 2021 and planned updates for Version 3 to be released in Summer 2022. Disclaimer: This abstract was reviewed by EPA and approved for publication; it may not necessarily reflect official Agency policy. Mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.