Abstract

JAUREGUI OSTOS, Ernesto  and  LUYANDO, Elda. Patrones de flujo de aire superficial y su relación con el transporte de contaminantes en el Valle de México. Invest. Geog [online]. 1992, n.24, pp.51-78. ISSN 2448-7279.

Baaed on 11 urban/suburban/rural surface wind stations an analysis of surface wind flow patterns is attempted for Mexico City and its surrounding rural area. The observed wind patterns in the valley are the result of interaction between regional, slope and heat-island-induced winds according to the hour of the day. During the night and early morning the "rural" winds and the downslope drainage of cool air combine to bring about a convergent flow toward the city center. During this period (when vehicle emissions reach a peak) lateral and vertical dispersion of primary pollutants are restricted. Around noon, an unstable layer is established and the regional winds come down to the ground and transport and disperse pollutants toward the south of the city and beyond.

Keywords : Urban air flow patterns; air pollution; urban climatology.