Annual average sulphur dioxide (SO₂) concentrations for all of Europe reach a maximum in the Central European region. Highest inputs and highest average levels are recorded in Germany, Poland, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia, with significant additional inputs from Hungary, Romania, Yugoslavia, and Croatia. In the following figure, the darker shading identifies the area of the highest concentrations. In addition to westerlies that provide a prevailing upper airflow, there is a northwest to southeast flow for the region. The lighter shaded area shows countries on the receiving end of the general movement of pollutants, from the area of highest concentration in a direction toward the south and east, which contributes to average SO₂ levels in the region. Seasonal and localized variations in weather patterns, topography, and temperature inversions add to the complexity of this generalized pattern. From the data evaluated in this study, there appears to be significant potential for transboundary migration of pollutants in this region, particularly from the more industrialized northern countries toward the southern countries. Thus, airborne pollutants become regional rather than just state concerns.

Air Flow in Central Europe

For more information contact Dr. Dennis Engi, (505) 845-8284.

For best viewing of this web site, do NOT override the documents colors. For best viewing of this web site, do NOT override the documents colors. For best viewing of this web site, do NOT override the documents colors. For best viewing of this web site, do NOT override the documents colors. For best viewing of this web site, do NOT override the documents colors.