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NYC Air Quality Dips: Winter's Cold Grip Tightens
21 Feb
Summary
- Winter's temperature inversion trapped pollutants, worsening air quality.
- New York City experienced unhealthy air levels, especially for sensitive groups.
- Pollution levels returned to normal on Thursday after the cold snap.
New York City experienced a notable decrease in air quality earlier this week, with advisories issued for the metropolitan area. Air sensors registered a rise in fine pollution particles, peaking on Wednesday evening. This degradation is linked to a sustained cold period followed by warming temperatures.
A professor from Columbia University explained that a temperature inversion occurred, where cooler air near the ground trapped pollutants. Normally, warmer air aloft facilitates the dispersion of emissions from heating and vehicles. This inversion prevented vertical air mixing, causing pollutants to concentrate.
While New York City's air quality has generally improved over time, readings this week ranged from moderate to unhealthy for sensitive individuals. Children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with pre-existing medical conditions were particularly at risk and advised to limit outdoor exposure and use air filters. Air quality levels have since returned to typical readings as of Thursday.
