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1 pages, 140 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Statement of Peer Review

by Konstantinos Moustris and Nastos Panagiotis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 213; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026213 - 25 Mar 2024

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Abstract

In submitting conference proceedings to Environment Sciences Proceedings, the volume editors of the proceedings certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review administered by the volume editors [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1255 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Spatial and Temporal Changes of Diurnal Temperature Range in Greece—The Urban Effect

by Dimitra Founda, Anna Mamara, Athanasios Argiriou, Fragiskos Pierros and Athanasios Sarantopoulos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026001 - 22 Aug 2023

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Abstract

Diurnal Temperature Range (DTR), defined as the difference between the daily maximum (T_max) and daily minimum (T_min) air temperature, has received considerable attention as an important indicator of climate change. In the present study, we analyse long-term highly homogenized [...] Read more.

Diurnal Temperature Range (DTR), defined as the difference between the daily maximum (T_max) and daily minimum (T_min) air temperature, has received considerable attention as an important indicator of climate change. In the present study, we analyse long-term highly homogenized DTR data from 51 Greek stations and investigate their spatiotemporal changes. The long-term temporal changes of DTR revealed mixed patterns with both increasing and decreasing trends over the study period and distinct seasonal differentiations. DTR pattern in Athens has fluctuated since the beginning of the twentieth century, generally following warming and cooling air temperature trends. After the mid-1980s, DTR showed a pronounced decreasing trend at a rate of 0.47 °C/decade in summer (p < 0.01) due to higher warming rates of T_min, suggesting the combined effects of regional warming and urbanization levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1089 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Machine Learning Regression to Predict Pollen Concentrations of Oleaceae and Quercus Taxa in Thessaloniki, Greece

by Sofia Papadogiannaki, Serafeim Kontos, Daphne Parliari and Dimitrios Melas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026002 - 23 Aug 2023

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Abstract

Airborne pollen triggers allergic reactions in up to 40% of the global population. The incidence of pollen allergies is increasing in Thessaloniki, Greece and it is predicted that more than 50% of the European Union’s inhabitants will suffer from allergic rhinitis by 2025. [...] Read more.

Airborne pollen triggers allergic reactions in up to 40% of the global population. The incidence of pollen allergies is increasing in Thessaloniki, Greece and it is predicted that more than 50% of the European Union’s inhabitants will suffer from allergic rhinitis by 2025. Thus, it is essential to investigate and predict high pollen concentrations to address this growing concern. This study utilized the Gradient Boosting Regression (GBR) technique, a machine learning approach, to estimate pollen concentrations of Oleaceae and Quercus taxa, using daily meteorological and land surface data obtained from the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). The method accurately predicted pollen concentrations for both species, with an Index of Agreement (IoA) of 0.86 for Oleaceae and 0.78 for Quercus, despite the limited size of the dataset. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1027 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Identifying the Relationship between Climate Parameters and Teleconnection Patterns in the North Atlantic Ocean

by Dafni Delioglani and Christina Anagnostopoulou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026003 - 22 Aug 2023

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Abstract

North Atlantic plays a pivotal role in modulating the Earth’s climate by absorbing, releasing, and transferring large amounts of heat all over the world. Sea level pressure (SLP), sea surface temperature (SST), and air temperature (Tair) are strongly influenced by climate change and [...] Read more.

North Atlantic plays a pivotal role in modulating the Earth’s climate by absorbing, releasing, and transferring large amounts of heat all over the world. Sea level pressure (SLP), sea surface temperature (SST), and air temperature (Tair) are strongly influenced by climate change and can affect Earth’s weather and climate conditions. This study aims to investigate the role of SLP, SST, and Tair in the formation of teleconnection patterns in the North Atlantic (e.g., NAO, AO). Pearson correlation and cross-correlation analysis are used to identify the relationship between the climate parameters as well as between these parameters and the teleconnection patterns. SLP over Northern Atlantic presents positive correlation with NAO and negative correlation with AO, while an above average value of NAO is likely to lead to a below average value of SST approximately 20 days later or earlier depending on the study region. Tair changes seem to occur with a day difference from NAO and AO changes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 1214 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

HNMS Marine Forecasts in Cases of Weather Warnings: Verification against Satellite Measurements

by Spyridoula Oikonomou, Dimitra Deli, Dionysia Kotta, Ioannis Matsangouras and Michail Myrsilidis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026004 - 22 Aug 2023

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Abstract

The Hellenic National Meteorological Service (HNMS) issues marine weather bulletins for the Mediterranean and the Black Seas as part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System, with wind forecasts being of high importance. This study evaluates the accuracy of HNMS marine forecasts [...] Read more.

The Hellenic National Meteorological Service (HNMS) issues marine weather bulletins for the Mediterranean and the Black Seas as part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System, with wind forecasts being of high importance. This study evaluates the accuracy of HNMS marine forecasts during Wind Warning (WW) events when weather warnings were also issued for Greece. The analysis focuses on events that occurred over the Ionian and the Aegean Seas from September 2019 to February 2023. Remote sensing data are used to objectively verify the forecasted wind speed and sea state. An evaluation of the accuracy of numerical weather prediction products against satellite data during the weather system ‘Barbara’ (February 2023), that was also a WW event, is included. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1765 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Assimilation of In Situ Meteorological Data to Optimize a Weather Service for Mosquito Control

by Stergios Kartsios, Eleni Katragkou, Maria-Chara Karypidou, Sandra Gewehr and Spiros Mourelatos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026005 - 23 Aug 2023

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Abstract

This study investigates the impact of data assimilation to the weather forecasts produced within the project “MOSQUITO VISION”, concerning the development of a digital application for mosquito nuisance prediction. The in situ meteorological data used for the assimilation are retrieved from the Region [...] Read more.

This study investigates the impact of data assimilation to the weather forecasts produced within the project “MOSQUITO VISION”, concerning the development of a digital application for mosquito nuisance prediction. The in situ meteorological data used for the assimilation are retrieved from the Region of Central Macedonia (RCM) climate data hub, currently including 49 meteorological stations compliant with WMO requirements. Here, we assess the numerical system’s performance by ingesting available observations over the RCM through two different data assimilation techniques using the Weather Research and Forecasting model. The results indicate that there is no significant added value to the assimilated weather forecasted fields over the area of interest (RCM), and the assimilated signal is diminishing relative quickly due to non-linear processes. This study is funded under the Greek Research and Innovation Strategies for Smart Specialization call (RIS 3, project code: ΚΜΡ6_077890). Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 2076 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Seawater Quality Measurements at the Two Ports of Patras, Greece

by Aristeidis Bloutsos, Andriana Aravantinou, Ioannis D. Manariotis and Panayotis Yannopoulos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026006 - 23 Aug 2023

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Abstract

A monitoring program of seawater quality was conducted during the October 2013–June 2016 period at the port city of Patras. A total of fourteen sampling campaigns were conducted. Eleven sampling sites were selected at the Southern New Port and at the Northern Old [...] Read more.

A monitoring program of seawater quality was conducted during the October 2013–June 2016 period at the port city of Patras. A total of fourteen sampling campaigns were conducted. Eleven sampling sites were selected at the Southern New Port and at the Northern Old Port of Patras, namely at the discharge point of the south outlet of the collecting storm water conduit and at the two river mouths discharging at both sides of the Southern New Port, to evaluate the contribution of surface runoff and harbor activities on seawater pollution. At each site, water quality parameters were determined in situ, and water samples were transferred and analyzed at the laboratory. Taking into consideration the whole set of measurements, it can be concluded that the seawater quality of the two ports is satisfactory in comparison to other coastal zones in the area around Patras and other ports. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1034 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Link of Extreme Precipitation with the Clausius–Clapeyron Relation: The Case Study of Thessaloniki, Greece

by Alexandros Papadopoulos-Zachos and Christina Anagnostopoulou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026007 - 23 Aug 2023

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Abstract

One of the impacts of climate change is an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall events. This has very significant social and economic consequences for the affected areas (flooding, loss of life, destruction of infrastructure, etc.). Future trends indicate a [...] Read more.

One of the impacts of climate change is an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall events. This has very significant social and economic consequences for the affected areas (flooding, loss of life, destruction of infrastructure, etc.). Future trends indicate a further increase in extreme rainfall in the second half of the century, making the need for the timely and accurate forecasting of these phenomena more urgent than ever. However, despite the technological development of weather and climate models in recent years, there are still limitations in detecting the extremes, especially regarding the precipitation parameter. Extreme precipitation events show a link with temperature. The Clausius–Clapeyron (CC) equation, which relates temperature to saturation vapor pressure (e_s), is used to study the sensitivity of precipitation to temperature increase because it can estimate the increase in the available atmospheric water vapor with respect to temperature. Focusing on the Thessaloniki region in Greece, the aim of this paper is to investigate the applicability of the Clausius–Clapeyron relation to the scaling relationship between extreme precipitation intensity and surface air temperature. An additional attempt is also made to test the possibility of improving the underestimation that the reanalysis models exhibit in recording the extremes and in particular the ERA5 Land dataset. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 5367 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Effect of Dust Events on Photovoltaics Electricity Production in the European and North African Regions

by Davender Sethi and Panagiotis G. Kosmopoulos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026008 - 23 Aug 2023

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Abstract

The effect of two dust events on solar energy has been studied in Europe and North Africa. For analysis, total aerosol and dust optical depth (AOD) in conjunction with solar irradiation and energy data were utilized from Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS). The [...] Read more.

The effect of two dust events on solar energy has been studied in Europe and North Africa. For analysis, total aerosol and dust optical depth (AOD) in conjunction with solar irradiation and energy data were utilized from Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS). The AOD reached ~2.8 and ~1.7 during the dust events (16–19 April 2021 and 15–18 March 2022), respectively. Both events originated in North Africa, reaching the northern parts of Europe and the Black Sea. The energy production of solar photovoltaics in the affected regions was reduced by almost 18–36 GWh, followed by an estimated financial loss of close to 4 million euros. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 4868 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Observations of Transient Luminous Events from Greece

by Christos Doudoulakis, Thanasis Papathanasiou, Dimitris Sagiakos and Panagiotis Tsouras

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026009 - 23 Aug 2023

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Abstract

Transient Luminous Events (TLEs) are rare electrical discharges occurring in the middle and upper atmosphere above thunderstorms. The results of systematic observations of TLEs in a region that includes Greece and its surrounding area during a 2-year period (September 2020–September 2022) are presented. [...] Read more.

Transient Luminous Events (TLEs) are rare electrical discharges occurring in the middle and upper atmosphere above thunderstorms. The results of systematic observations of TLEs in a region that includes Greece and its surrounding area during a 2-year period (September 2020–September 2022) are presented. This study provides a first insight about the frequency, the spatiotemporal distribution, and the variety of these events in that region. In total, 1632 TLEs were observed during these 2 years. Of these, 95.5% were red sprites. Most events occurred over the Ionian Sea, the southern Adriatic Sea, and western Greece. The most favorable period for TLEs in Greece and its surrounding area is from October to February. Noteworthy were two prolific nights, 15–16 October 2020 and 4–5 December 2021, over mesoscale convective systems at the Ionian Sea and the southeastern Aegean Sea, respectively, when hundreds of these events were observed. Observations of this kind are of great significance, not only because they are the first-ever conducted in the aforementioned region but also due to the fact that these events seem to exhibit a relatively high frequency of appearance there. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 3463 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Energy Autonomy Scenario for the Island of Mykonos in Greece with Solar Power Plants

by Agathi Nasioula and Panagiotis G. Kosmopoulos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026010 - 23 Aug 2023

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Abstract

Mykonos is one of the fastest growing Greek islands, and it attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists, mainly in the summer months. A consequence of this rapid development is an ever-increasing energy demand. Solar energy exploitation is the topic of this study, and [...] Read more.

Mykonos is one of the fastest growing Greek islands, and it attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists, mainly in the summer months. A consequence of this rapid development is an ever-increasing energy demand. Solar energy exploitation is the topic of this study, and the aim is to provide an energy autonomous solution for Mykonos that covers its electricity needs for the whole year from photovoltaic plants. Data from the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service and Eumetsat’s support to nowcasting and very short-range forecasting were combined with Radiative Transfer Models and the Photovoltaic Geographical Information System in order to quantify the island’s expected electricity production and the effect of atmospheric parameters, and this enabled an energy adequacy scenario to be formed and financial analysis to be conducted. The aim of the method proposed in this study is to highlight the opportunity for energy transition for Mykonos as well as the rest of Cyclades islands, and to thereby provide viable and sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 932 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Machine Learning Approach for Rainfall Nowcasting Using Numerical Model and Observational Data

by Georgios Kyros, Ioannis Manolas, Konstantinos Diamantaras, Stavros Dafis and Konstantinos Lagouvardos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026011 - 23 Aug 2023

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Abstract

The application of machine learning (ML) algorithms in large datasets in the field of meteorology is at the forefront of research. In this context, the use of satellite data to estimate the amount of rainfall is an important field of research, with operational [...] Read more.

The application of machine learning (ML) algorithms in large datasets in the field of meteorology is at the forefront of research. In this context, the use of satellite data to estimate the amount of rainfall is an important field of research, with operational applications. It is important to accurately predict the amount of rainfall (or rain rate) in a particular area for the proper taking of life and property protection measures. The present work intends to deepen the analysis of meteorological data with ML techniques to improve our capacity in short-range forecasting of rainfall. To this end, relationships between thermodynamic parameters derived by satellite measurements and recorded rainfall by in situ gauges, along with outputs from a numerical atmospheric model are analyzed. The main purpose of the work is to find the best relationships between the atmospheric conditions and the formation of clouds that lead to production of rainfall and build a ML model for nowcasting of rainfall. Several ML methods are used, i.e., Auto Regression, Ensemble Machine Learning, and Deep Learning, and their results are compared in order to find the best fit model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1902 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Detection of Plastic and Petroleum Hydrocarbon Pollution at Sea with Laser-Induced Fluorescence

by Eleni Drakaki, Evangelini Zekou, Michail Serris and Nikolaos Merlemis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026012 - 23 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1074

Abstract

Plastic and oil pollutants’ distribution and composition quantifications are vital to better understanding their effects on marine life. We present preliminary experimental results to evaluate the potential of a compact Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF) apparatus for the detection of plastics and oil pollutants. The [...] Read more.

Plastic and oil pollutants’ distribution and composition quantifications are vital to better understanding their effects on marine life. We present preliminary experimental results to evaluate the potential of a compact Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF) apparatus for the detection of plastics and oil pollutants. The apparatus is based on a comparatively inexpensive method utilizing a 405 nm laser for sample excitation in water. Fluorescence spectra are recorded from known sources of microplastic pollutants, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene and PMMA, as well as several petroleum substances. A novel identification indicator is proposed for classifying the pollutant type in realistic environmental conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 2975 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Meteorological Applications from the Perspective of a Private Weather Provider

by Christos Gatidis and Filotas Paschos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026013 - 23 Aug 2023

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Abstract

As the demand for accurate weather forecasts continues to rise, there is an increasing need for specialized meteorological services. As a result, several private weather providers have emerged, offering customized meteorological solutions to meet the diverse needs of their clients. The present study [...] Read more.

As the demand for accurate weather forecasts continues to rise, there is an increasing need for specialized meteorological services. As a result, several private weather providers have emerged, offering customized meteorological solutions to meet the diverse needs of their clients. The present study introduces several meteorology-related applications from the point of view of WeatherNews Inc. (WNI), which is a private weather company. These applications are developed to primarily assist shipping- and energy-related companies, with greater emphasis being given to vessel weather routing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1397 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Temporal and Spatial Characteristics of the Economic Burden Related to Long-Term PM_2.5 and O₃ Exposure in Greece for the Period 2004–2019

by Kyriaki Psistaki, Ilias Petrou, Anastasia K. Paschalidou and Pavlos Kassomenos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026014 - 23 Aug 2023

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Abstract

Based on the value of statistical life and the willingness to pay methods, we estimated the economic cost resulting from premature mortality associated with fine particulate matter and ground-level ozone exposure across Greece during 2004–2019 under a constant and changing income elasticity scenario. [...] Read more.

Based on the value of statistical life and the willingness to pay methods, we estimated the economic cost resulting from premature mortality associated with fine particulate matter and ground-level ozone exposure across Greece during 2004–2019 under a constant and changing income elasticity scenario. The spatiotemporal trends of the economic burden were also investigated. The total economic burden attributable to premature mortality due to exposure to PM_2.5 and O₃ for the 16-year period was estimated at EUR 66.34 billion under the constant scenario and at EUR 273.65 billion under the changing scenario. A dramatic decline of the mortality cost was observed from 2009 to 2019 in the changing scenario, as opposed to a less profound downward trend under the constant scenario, where the annual gross domestic product and the consumer price index were not taken into account. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 1019 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Surface Shortwave Radiation Measurements and Modeling under Intense Desert Dust Conditions

by Kyriakoula Papachristopoulou, Alexandra Tsekeri, Dimitra Kouklaki, Panagiotis Ioannis Raptis, Eleni Marinou, Vasilis Amiridis, Ilias Fountoulakis and Stelios Kazadzis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026015 - 23 Aug 2023

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Abstract

Desert dust atmospheric aerosols play an important role in the Earth-atmosphere system and constitute a key agent for the Earth’s climate through their radiative processes. However, dust radiative effects are still subjected to large uncertainties, due to the uncertain estimates of their optical [...] Read more.

Desert dust atmospheric aerosols play an important role in the Earth-atmosphere system and constitute a key agent for the Earth’s climate through their radiative processes. However, dust radiative effects are still subjected to large uncertainties, due to the uncertain estimates of their optical properties. A radiative closure study, under cloudless sky, using measurements and model results of shortwave radiation at the Earth’s surface was performed. All measurements were gathered under Saharan dust conditions during the ASKOS campaign at Mindelo, Cabo Verde. Radiation measurements were compared with radiative transfer simulations, using as input concurrent retrievals of dust optical properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 3376 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Snow Depth Trends of European Ski Resorts

by Ioannis Masloumidis, Stavros Dafis, Georgios Kyros and Konstantinos Lagouvardos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026016 - 23 Aug 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1870

Abstract

Snow significantly affects the economy of many European countries, especially in the sector of winter tourism. It affects the operation of ski resorts, the mountain real estate, and can cause disruptions in transportations. The objective of this study is to analyze trends in [...] Read more.

Snow significantly affects the economy of many European countries, especially in the sector of winter tourism. It affects the operation of ski resorts, the mountain real estate, and can cause disruptions in transportations. The objective of this study is to analyze trends in snow depth at ski resorts in Europe based on the CERRA-land reanalysis data. Time series are computed between 1985–2020 for 4507 European ski resorts. Results show that the majority of ski resorts are severely affected by decreasing trends in snow depth, especially in winter and spring. Spatial patterns based on the elevation of ski resorts are also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1224 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Bias Correction of Daily Precipitation on Two Eastern Mediterranean Stations with GAMs

by Georgia Lazoglou, Theo Economou, Christina Anagnostopoulou, Anna Tzyrkalli, George Zittis and Jos Lelieveld

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026017 - 23 Aug 2023

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Abstract

Climate models are fundamental tools for assessing historical climate conditions and projecting future ones. However, the results often differ systematically from observational data. The minimization of these differences is known as bias correction. The present study aims to correct the biases between observed [...] Read more.

Climate models are fundamental tools for assessing historical climate conditions and projecting future ones. However, the results often differ systematically from observational data. The minimization of these differences is known as bias correction. The present study aims to correct the biases between observed daily precipitation values and the respective simulated ones from a EURO-CORDEX climate model. For this purpose, powerful statistical tools—generalized additive models (GAMs)—are used. GAMs are modified to adjust the simulated rainfall with the highest accuracy, and subsequently, they are evaluated by comparison with observational data. The method was applied to two eastern Mediterranean stations (Larissa in Greece and Larnaca in Cyprus) for the period 1981 to 2005. The results from both stations reveal that GAMs offer a valuable and accurate technique for the bias adjustment of daily precipitation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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4 pages, 229 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Climate Change Impacts on the Prevalence of Tick-Borne Diseases in Europe

by Maria E. Tsoumani, Sevastiani I. Papailia, Effie G. Papageorgiou and Chrysa Voyiatzaki

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026018 - 23 Aug 2023

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Abstract

Climate change (changes in temperature and weather patterns) plays a significant role in the outbreak of tick-borne diseases such as Lyme borreliosis (LB) disease and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) in Europe. The prevalence of LB disease has increased lately and TBE, one of the [...] Read more.

Climate change (changes in temperature and weather patterns) plays a significant role in the outbreak of tick-borne diseases such as Lyme borreliosis (LB) disease and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) in Europe. The prevalence of LB disease has increased lately and TBE, one of the most serious infections of the central nervous system, significantly affects public health. Changes in abiotic factors are the main determinants affecting their vectors. The warmer weather during winter has prolonged the extension of the period in which ticks are most active. Therefore, the increased risk of transmission of tick-borne diseases influenced by the climate conditions could be determined by advanced climate models. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

6 pages, 3027 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Temporal Variation of PM₁ on the Campus of the University of Patras, Greece

by Aristeidis Bloutsos and Panayotis Yannopoulos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026019 - 23 Aug 2023

Viewed by 628

Abstract

Several scientific studies reveal that particulate matter that is smaller than 1 μm (PM₁) represents the main hazard for the cardiorespiratory pathological status of the population. The present study deals with the presentation of the long-term continuous measurements of PM₁ [...] Read more.

Several scientific studies reveal that particulate matter that is smaller than 1 μm (PM₁) represents the main hazard for the cardiorespiratory pathological status of the population. The present study deals with the presentation of the long-term continuous measurements of PM₁ in the atmospheric environment of the University of Patras Campus (UPC) at Rion. The 1 h mean concentrations of PM₁ were recorded and presented in this study, covering a seven-year period (2012–2018) in a suburban area of Patras, with background characteristics. The results indicated that PM₁ levels were quite low, with significant differences between cold and warm periods. However, they did not show significant variations. This project aimed to identify and assess UPC air quality. Our findings may contribute to useful PM₁ concentration patterns based on the long-term recorded data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 3162 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

On the Northward Shift of Agro-Climatic Zones in Europe under Different Climate Change Scenarios

by Dimitris Akritidis, Aristeidis K. Georgoulias, Roxanne S. Lorilla, Charalampos Kontoes, Andrej Ceglar, Andrea Toreti, Alkiviadis Kalisoras and Prodromos Zanis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026020 - 23 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 980

Abstract

We investigate future changes of agro-climatic zones over Europe under two different IPCC Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) based on an ensemble of 11 bias-corrected regional climate model simulations covering the period 1981–2100. Eight distinct agro-climatic zones were identified by applying the [...] Read more.

We investigate future changes of agro-climatic zones over Europe under two different IPCC Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) based on an ensemble of 11 bias-corrected regional climate model simulations covering the period 1981–2100. Eight distinct agro-climatic zones were identified by applying the k-means clustering method for the reference period 1981–2010 on two temperature-related parameters: the growing season length and the active temperature sum. Our results point towards a strong northward shift of the agro-climatic zones, especially under RCP8.5, towards the end of the century. A significant shift of the agro-climatic zones is also projected for RCP4.5 in the near-future and the end-of-the-century periods for large areas in Europe. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1439 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Study of the Seasonality of Extreme Precipitation Events over the Mediterranean for the Future Period 2081–2100

by Marina Antoniadou and Christina Anagnostopoulou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026021 - 23 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 732

Abstract

This study examines extreme precipitation seasonality in the Mediterranean for the future period 2081–2100, based on the climate scenario SSP5-8.5. Using data from the CNRM-CM6-1-HR, the study determines the dates of extreme precipitation events using the circular statistics method. The results indicate that [...] Read more.

This study examines extreme precipitation seasonality in the Mediterranean for the future period 2081–2100, based on the climate scenario SSP5-8.5. Using data from the CNRM-CM6-1-HR, the study determines the dates of extreme precipitation events using the circular statistics method. The results indicate that almost 50% of grid points experienced the first extreme event of the year between January and February during the reference period. In the future period, there will be an increase in the percentage of grid points experiencing events during the cold period, meaning that there will be a seasonal shift of extreme events to colder months mainly affecting the west and east Mediterranean. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 3978 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Novel Measurements of Desert Dust Electrical Properties: A Multi-Instrument Approach during the ASKOS 2022 Campaign

by Sotirios Mallios, Vassiliki Daskalopoulou, Vasileios Spanakis-Misirlis, George Hloupis and Vassilis Amiridis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026022 - 23 Aug 2023

Viewed by 571

Abstract

Synergetic measurements of the vertical atmospheric field and the total charge density in the presence of dust events are presented through the launches of balloon-borne instrumentation, including a MiniMill electrometer and a space charge sensor, under dust events during the AEOLUS Cal/Val campaign [...] Read more.

Synergetic measurements of the vertical atmospheric field and the total charge density in the presence of dust events are presented through the launches of balloon-borne instrumentation, including a MiniMill electrometer and a space charge sensor, under dust events during the AEOLUS Cal/Val campaign of ASKOS in Cabo Verde, in June/September 2022. The electric field profiling measurements obtained by different instrumentations are compared, and the near-ground observations are evaluated with a reference ground-based fieldmill electrometer. Moreover, their performance is assessed by utilizing measurements of the co-located Polly XT lidar and its extracted products above the launching site. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 4521 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

PBL Height Retrievals during ASKOS Campaign

by Ioanna Tsikoudi, Eleni Marinou, Kalliopi Voudouri, Iliana Koutsoupi, Eleni Drakaki, Anna Kampouri, Ville Vakkari, Holger Baars, Elina Giannakaki, Maria Tombrou and Vassilis Amiridis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026023 - 23 Aug 2023

Viewed by 642

Abstract

This study analyzes the structure of the Planetary Boundary Layer (PBL) at Mindelo, Cabo Verde, where the ASKOS Campaign took place from 2021 to 2022. Datasets from ground-based remote sensing instruments and radiosondes are used to derive the PBL height, by applying the [...] Read more.

This study analyzes the structure of the Planetary Boundary Layer (PBL) at Mindelo, Cabo Verde, where the ASKOS Campaign took place from 2021 to 2022. Datasets from ground-based remote sensing instruments and radiosondes are used to derive the PBL height, by applying the Wavelet Covariance Transform (WCT), Threshold (TM), and Gradient Method (GM). Two case studies are described in detail, one with a significant dust load (23 September 2022) and one with relatively less dust load (12 September 2022). In the first case, the PBL top is found lower, and the methods used for the retrievals are characterized by larger uncertainties. In the second case, a higher and more convective PBL is observed. Additionally, results are compared with ECMWF outputs, establishing good agreement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 2693 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Solar Photovoltaic Energy Production Conditions in the Urban Environment of Athens, Cairo, Granada and Vienna

by Stavros Vigkos, Panagiotis G. Kosmopoulos and Alexandros Papayannis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026024 - 23 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3565

Abstract

This study deals with the effect of clouds and aerosols on solar photovoltaic energy in the urban environments and conditions of Athens, Cairo, Granada and Vienna, so that there is diversity in terms of cloud presence, aerosol types and irradiation levels. To this [...] Read more.

This study deals with the effect of clouds and aerosols on solar photovoltaic energy in the urban environments and conditions of Athens, Cairo, Granada and Vienna, so that there is diversity in terms of cloud presence, aerosol types and irradiation levels. To this direction, satellite-based remote sensing data were used for a decade (2010–2019) from Eumetsat in conjunction with Copernicus and radiative-transfer-modelled data. Furthermore, an idealized solar energy planning scenario, making the most of photovoltaics installed on the roofs of city buildings, was investigated in order to cover the electricity needs of the pilot cities and to promote local energy security and transition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 1218 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Investigation into Atmospheric Pollution Impacts on Hospital Admissions in Attica Using Regression Models

by Aggelos Kladakis, Kyriaki-Maria Fameli, Konstantinos Moustris, Vasiliki D. Assimakopoulos and Panagiotis Nastos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026025 - 23 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 583

Abstract

Research in the field of air pollution epidemiology is crucial for identifying and enhancing quality of life by taking measures to manage adequately related medical emergencies. The aim of this paper is to investigate how the occurrence of certain respiratory and cardiovascular diseases [...] Read more.

Research in the field of air pollution epidemiology is crucial for identifying and enhancing quality of life by taking measures to manage adequately related medical emergencies. The aim of this paper is to investigate how the occurrence of certain respiratory and cardiovascular diseases in the urban population of the Attica region is affected by the existence of air pollution. The study takes into consideration the daily hospital admissions from two hospitals in central and western Attica as well as the air quality status from the neighboring monitoring stations. The Generalized Linear Models with Poisson Distribution were applied because of the distribution followed by the medical data. Preliminary results from the regression analysis revealed the relationship between pollutants’ concentrations and the associated health effects derived from public hospitals in Attica. The effects of the pollution episodes on health are closely related to factors such as the gender and age of patients, as well as the length of their hospital stays. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 815 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Using Radiometric Measurements to Separate Dust and Smoke Radiative Effects during a Combined Smoke–Dust Event

by Ilias Fountoulakis, Nikolaos Siomos, Ioannis-Panagiotis Raptis, Kostas Eleftheratos, Dimitra Kouklaki, Basil E. Psiloglou, Vassilis Amiridis and Stelios Kazadzis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026026 - 23 Aug 2023

Viewed by 572

Abstract

In August 2021, extreme wildfires burned wide areas in Greece. The most severe events took place in the region of Attica and significantly affected the air quality over the city of Athens. In the same period, southern winds transferred dust from the Sahara [...] Read more.

In August 2021, extreme wildfires burned wide areas in Greece. The most severe events took place in the region of Attica and significantly affected the air quality over the city of Athens. In the same period, southern winds transferred dust from the Sahara Desert to the city. We chose a day with high dust and smoke loads to test a new method for the determination of the individual components of the aerosol mixture, based on actinometric and radiometric measurements and radiative transfer modelling. Then, we estimated the radiative effect of each of the aerosol mixture components. Assuming that dust particles are coarse while all other particles are fine, coarse to fine mode ratios were estimated and were compared with the corresponding ratios from a CIMEL sun photometer, resulting in quite good agreement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 522 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Soil Optical and Hydraulic Properties of Burnt Forest Areas in Greece after the Implementation of Postfire Restoration Works–Preliminary Results

by Nikolaos D. Proutsos, Alexandra D. Solomou, Panagiotis Michopoulos, Athanassios Bourletsikas, Stavros Tsilikounas, Vereniki Louka, Panagiotis Lattas and Panagiotis Kalliris

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026027 - 23 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 919

Abstract

The short-term changes in micrometeorological and hydraulic attributes of burnt forest soils were evaluated under the influence of three types of post-fire restoration works (wattles, log barriers, and log dams). Comparisons between the two zones (erosion EZ and deposition DZ) formed at the [...] Read more.

The short-term changes in micrometeorological and hydraulic attributes of burnt forest soils were evaluated under the influence of three types of post-fire restoration works (wattles, log barriers, and log dams). Comparisons between the two zones (erosion EZ and deposition DZ) formed at the area between two consecutive restoration work units were performed. The reflectance presents minor differences in the two zones, being slightly higher in the EZ, whereas cooler surface temperature and higher soil moisture were recorded in the DZ. The DZ can effectively infiltrate precipitation water with rates of about 150% higher compared to the EZ. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1358 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

On the Influence of the Prevailing Weather Regime on the Atmospheric Pollution Levels in the City of Ioannina

by Anna Soupiadou, Christos J. Lolis and Nikolaos Hatzianastassiou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026028 - 23 Aug 2023

Viewed by 539

Abstract

The dependence of the atmospheric pollution levels on the synoptic conditions and the associated prevailing weather regimes over Ioannina was examined for the 3-year period of 15 February 2019–14 February 2022. The study period is constrained by the availability of quality local air [...] Read more.

The dependence of the atmospheric pollution levels on the synoptic conditions and the associated prevailing weather regimes over Ioannina was examined for the 3-year period of 15 February 2019–14 February 2022. The study period is constrained by the availability of quality local air (particulate and gaseous) pollution measurements. The data used consist of (1) daily grid point values of the main meteorological parameters over the geographical domains of southeastern Europe and the greater Epirus region, obtained from ERA5 Reanalysis database and (2) hourly values of the main meteorological parameters and the concentration of basic pollutants recorded at the automatic environmental station of the Epirus Region located at the center of Ioannina. At first, 12 Weather Types (WTs) were defined on daily basis by applying a multivariate statistical methodology including Factor Analysis and k-means Cluster Analysis of the meteorological data. Next, for each WT, the average values, the standard deviations and the mean diurnal variations in the pollutant concentrations were calculated. According to the results, it appears that almost all pollutant concentrations were considerably higher during two anticyclonic WTs prevailing in the cold period of the year, while the diurnal variations in the concentrations were affected by the diurnal variations in traffic, combustion processes and solar radiation. The exact influence of the above factors depends on the characteristics of the prevailing WT. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 227 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Aneurysms in the Times of the Climatic Change

by Eirini Karagianni and Aikaterini Karagianni

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026029 - 23 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1842

Abstract

The effects of climate change are now evident on a global level and indisputable even to the most skeptical. Melting ice, rising sea levels, and changing climate zones are a daily occurrence and subject of debate in the media. Beyond the obvious effects [...] Read more.

The effects of climate change are now evident on a global level and indisputable even to the most skeptical. Melting ice, rising sea levels, and changing climate zones are a daily occurrence and subject of debate in the media. Beyond the obvious effects of these phenomena on human lives, countless others arise and await being studied. Meanwhile, it has been proven that many health problems are related to changes in weather and large fluctuations of temperature. Specifically, studies have been conducted to correlate the rupture of intracranial aneurysms with seasonal and climatic conditions. The conclusions of these studies linked the rupture of intracranial aneurysms with higher temperatures, as well as with higher atmospheric pressure. Inevitably, one of the questions raised is whether the change in weather brings about conditions that favor the rupture of intracranial aneurysms throughout the year. The purpose of this paper is to present the results of studies that correlate these two factors and, then, to demonstrate that these meteorological conditions now prevail throughout the year, influencing, perhaps, and distributing the rupture of intracranial aneurysms during all seasons. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

5 pages, 2775 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Statistical Analysis for Long-Term Weather Forecast

by Dimitrios Kampolis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026030 - 23 Aug 2023

Viewed by 4149

Abstract

A weather forecast is a result of applying science and technology to predict the conditions of the atmosphere in a selected location and time in the future. The main input is a collection of data (atmospheric, land, and ocean), and the resulting output [...] Read more.

A weather forecast is a result of applying science and technology to predict the conditions of the atmosphere in a selected location and time in the future. The main input is a collection of data (atmospheric, land, and ocean), and the resulting output is meteorology (how atmospheric conditions will change). People have been trying to predict the weather by observing nature for thousands of years, but in a scientific way only since the 19th century. First manually and based mostly on changes in barometric pressure, and later in modern times with the contribution of computer-based models (numerical weather prediction). Despite the high inaccuracy of numerical weather prediction beyond 10 days, the interest in long-term weather forecasts is very high due to social reasons—energy sector, civil protection, etc.—and the scientific effort is constant. Here, we propose a statistical weather model for long-term weather forecasts based on weather/climate data time series. We will analyze atmospheric data in 850 hPa for a period of 35 years, resulting in temperature ensembles and temperature deviations for specific periods. Finally, we will contrast the results of the statistical weather model (prediction) with the real data to check the accuracy of the model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 6622 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Trends and Climatology of UTCI in the Czech Republic

by Martin Hynčica, Martin Novák and Simona Procházková

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026031 - 24 Aug 2023

Viewed by 762

Abstract

We present climatology and trends of the UTCI obtained from the ERA5 reanalysis between 1941 and 2018 for the Czech Republic. Long-term average of the UTCI exposes regions with approximately similar stress levels given by weather on humans, and it also forms the [...] Read more.

We present climatology and trends of the UTCI obtained from the ERA5 reanalysis between 1941 and 2018 for the Czech Republic. Long-term average of the UTCI exposes regions with approximately similar stress levels given by weather on humans, and it also forms the basis for the first bioclimatological mapping of the Czech Republic. Furthermore, positive long-term trends of UTCI indicate gradually increasing thermal stress on humans in all seasons but winter, in which, on the contrary, the cold stress decreases. Nevertheless, inhomogeneities in our results are expected because of flattened orography due to the coarse resolution of ERA5. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 662 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluation of the Simulated Atmospheric Particulate Matter Chemical Composition in Athens: Organic Aerosols Formation Sensitivity Tests

by Anastasia Poupkou, Serafim Kontos, Natalia Liora, Dimitrios Tsiaousidis, Ioannis Kapsomenakis, Stavros Solomos, Eleni Liakakou, Eleni Athanasopoulou, Georgios Grivas, Evangelia Diapouli, Vasiliki Vasilatou, Stefanos Papagiannis, Athena Progiou, Pavlos Kalabokas, Dimitrios Melas, Evangelos Gerasopoulos, Konstantinos Eleftheriadis and Christos Zerefos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026032 - 24 Aug 2023

Viewed by 674

Abstract

Air quality simulations were performed for the Greater Athens Area in very high spatial resolution using the modeling system WRF-CAMx. Sensitivity runs were performed using the SOAP and VBS schemes for organic gas–aerosol partitioning and oxidation. In January 2019, OA-VBS decreased compared to [...] Read more.

Air quality simulations were performed for the Greater Athens Area in very high spatial resolution using the modeling system WRF-CAMx. Sensitivity runs were performed using the SOAP and VBS schemes for organic gas–aerosol partitioning and oxidation. In January 2019, OA-VBS decreased compared to OA-SOAP because of POA reduction. In July 2019, the OA-VBS increased with respect to OA-SOAP as a result of the increase in SOA levels exceeding the decrease in POA ones. The comparison of the WRF-CAMx results against PM₁₀, PM_2.5, and OC surface measurements provides the first indications for improved CAMx performance with the VBS scheme. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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4 pages, 1405 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Estimation of Precipitable Water Using Thermal Infrared Images

by Vasileios Salamalikis, Panayiotis Tzoumanikas, Athanassios A. Argiriou and Andreas Kazantzidis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026033 - 24 Aug 2023

Viewed by 620

Abstract

Atmospheric water vapor is an important greenhouse gas, mainly distributed in the lower tropospheric levels where its concentration varies significantly in space and time; consequently, so does precipitable water. This work uses information from thermal infrared images to model precipitable water (PW) under [...] Read more.

Atmospheric water vapor is an important greenhouse gas, mainly distributed in the lower tropospheric levels where its concentration varies significantly in space and time; consequently, so does precipitable water. This work uses information from thermal infrared images to model precipitable water (PW) under clear skies. PW is measured using a portable sun-photometer and thermal images obtained through a high-cost thermal infrared camera. PW depends on the zenith-point temperature (T_b) exhibiting a non-linear positive exponential relationship, with systematic and dispersion errors of 0.04 mm and 1.9 mm. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 1684 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

On the Contribution of Aerosols and Clouds to Global Dimming and Brightening Using a Radiative Transfer Model, ISCCP-H Cloud and MERRA-2 Aerosol Optical Properties

by Michael Stamatis, Nikolaos Hatzianastassiou, Marios-Bruno Korras-Carraca, Christos Matsoukas, Martin Wild and Ilias Vardavas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026034 - 24 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 779

Abstract

The interdecadal changes of the incident solar radiation at the Earth’s surface (SSR) are mainly driven by changes in clouds and aerosols. In order to investigate their contribution to the SSR changes (global dimming and brightening or GDB), the FORTH radiative transfer model [...] Read more.

The interdecadal changes of the incident solar radiation at the Earth’s surface (SSR) are mainly driven by changes in clouds and aerosols. In order to investigate their contribution to the SSR changes (global dimming and brightening or GDB), the FORTH radiative transfer model (RTM) is used to compute the SSR fluxes. The cloud input data were taken from satellite observations of ISCCP-H, while aerosols and meteorological data were taken from the MERRA-2 reanalysis dataset. The RTM operates on a monthly basis and in 0.5° × 0.625° latitude-longitude spatial resolution. The GDB was also computed keeping constant at their initial 1984 values, each input parameter that was examined, resulting in a GDB with the ‘frozen’ parameter. The contribution of each parameter to the GDB is defined as the subtraction of the frozen GDB from the base-run GDB, and the positive/negative values of the contribution indicate that the interdecadal variability of the examined parameter increased/decreased the SSR. The aerosol optical depth (AOD) produced a dimming in India, Amazonia, and S. China, whereas it induced a brightening in Europe and Mexico. On the other hand, the total cloud cover (TCC) changes caused a dimming over the Arctic, Australia, and the South Ocean against a brightening in Europe, Mexico, the Middle East, and South America. The global mean contribution of changing AOD is 0.37 W/m², and for TCC, it is 4.7 W/m², indicating that globally, the counteraction of cloud cover to the overall global dimming is larger. Opposite contributions to GDB from AOD and TCC may occur over specific regions, highlighting the complexity of the causes of the GDB phenomenon. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 5671 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Flash Flood Forecasting Using Integrated Meteorological–Hydrological–Hydraulic Modeling: Application in a Mediterranean River

by George Varlas, George Papaioannou, Anastasios Papadopoulos, Vassiliki Markogianni, Leonidas Vardakas and Elias Dimitriou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026035 - 24 Aug 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 814

Abstract

This study aims at assessing meteorological, hydrological, and hydraulic modeling to develop a flash flood forecasting tool. The flash flood that occurred in the Evrotas River Basin (ERB) on 26 January 2023 is used as a case study. Precipitation over 150 mm and [...] Read more.

This study aims at assessing meteorological, hydrological, and hydraulic modeling to develop a flash flood forecasting tool. The flash flood that occurred in the Evrotas River Basin (ERB) on 26 January 2023 is used as a case study. Precipitation over 150 mm and water depths exceeding 2.5 m were recorded. The meteorological model initialized one day before flooding and simulated precipitation; the hydrological model, using meteorological input data, simulated discharge; and the hydraulic model, using discharge, estimated water depth at a bridge. The results indicate that the system can provide skillful and timely flash flood forecasts, thereby facilitating flood warnings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 617 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Application of AirQ+ Software in the Attica Region, Greece: The Hospitalizations and Work Days Lost Attributed to Air Pollutants

by Paraskevi Begou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026036 - 24 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 874

Abstract

The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed the AirQ+ software in order to estimate the magnitude of the impact of air pollution on health in a given population. In this study, the AirQ+ was applied to calculate the short-term effects attributed to PM [...] Read more.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed the AirQ+ software in order to estimate the magnitude of the impact of air pollution on health in a given population. In this study, the AirQ+ was applied to calculate the short-term effects attributed to PM_2.5, NO₂ and O₃ in the Attica Region, Greece. Based on the health endpoints handled by the AirQ+ software, we evaluated the impact of air pollutants on hospitalizations and work days lost. In 2015, 69,460 and 48,972 patients were admitted to the hospitals in the Attica Region due to circulatory and respiratory diseases, respectively. For the estimation of the attributable burden, the time-series of PM_2.5, NO₂ and O₃ concentrations for the year 2015 are used. The burden attributed to PM_2.5 is 297 (55–546) and 441 (0–953) hospitalizations for circulatory and respiratory diseases, respectively. NO₂ and O₃ also contribute to the burden of hospitalizations for respiratory diseases. Specifically, 424 (271–576) and 381 (61–718) respiratory-related hospitalizations are attributed to NO₂ and O₃, respectively. An important effect of PM_2.5 exposure also handled by the AirQ+ is work absenteeism. Based on health statistics for Greece, the number of self-reported work days lost per year due to illness are 14.7 days per employed person. The attributable burden of PM_2.5 is 0.33 (0.28–0.38) work days lost (per employed person per year). In conclusion, the short-term effects of air pollution exposure has a great impact on human health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 819 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Correlation between the Temperature, Precipitation, and Referrals for Physical Therapy for Patients with Chronic Musculoskeletal Problems

by Sotiria Vrouva, Varvara Sopidou, Vasileios Papatsimpas, Alexandra Nikolopoulou, Petros Tatsios, Konstantinos Chanopoulos and George A. Koumantakis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026037 - 24 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 790

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate how temperature and precipitation are associated with the number of referrals for physical therapy. Material and Methods: Weather data and monthly referrals were collected retrospectively for three years (2020–2022). A total of 937 referrals were [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to investigate how temperature and precipitation are associated with the number of referrals for physical therapy. Material and Methods: Weather data and monthly referrals were collected retrospectively for three years (2020–2022). A total of 937 referrals were studied. Trend analysis was conducted to identify patterns and trends in data over time, including correlation analysis to discover relationships and multivariate linear regression analyses to model the direction and strength of this. Results: Monthly referrals were found to be strongly associated with weather indicators (r_s = −0.744, p < 0.001 for temperature and r_s = 0.894, p < 0.001 for precipitation). Multivariate regression analyses verified this significant correlation (b = −0.763, p < 0.025 and b = 0.598, p < 0.001, respectively). A stronger correlation was found for female referrals (b = 0.509, p < 0.001) compared to that found for male referrals (b = 0.089, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Low temperatures and high precipitation rates were found to be associated with an increased number of referrals. Females were more vulnerable to precipitation increases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1518 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Lidar, Ceilometer and Drone-Borne Aerosol Profiling during the EVIAN 2022 Campaign in Cyprus

by Peletidou Georgia, Papetta Alkistis, Kezoudi Maria, Alvanou Panagiota, Balis Dimitris and Marenco Franco

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026038 - 24 Aug 2023

Viewed by 789

Abstract

In this study, we present primary results from the aErosol Vertical profiling with lIdars And droNes (EVIAN) campaign, under the ATMO-ACCESS project, which took place in Nicosia, Cyprus (35°10′21″ N, 33°21′54″ E). Measurements from different [...] Read more.

In this study, we present primary results from the aErosol Vertical profiling with lIdars And droNes (EVIAN) campaign, under the ATMO-ACCESS project, which took place in Nicosia, Cyprus (35°10′21″ N, 33°21′54″ E). Measurements from different instrument techniques, e.g., lidar, ceilometer and “drone-borne” Optical Particle Counter (OPC), have been used in a synergistic way during the campaign to derive the aerosol properties. This study focuses on the comparison of the drone-borne and ceilometer retrievals, mainly in the Planetary Boundary Layer (PBL), and the synergistic use of the above-mentioned instruments in analyzing the geometrical and optical properties of the detected aerosol layers to improve the determination of the lidar overlap function. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 1311 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

On the Methane Emissions of the Greater Thessaloniki Area

by Konstantinos Kourtidis, Apostolos Tzivleris, Stavros Stathopoulos, Alexandra Gemitzi and Aristeidis K. Georgoulias

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026039 - 24 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 723

Abstract

We examine the atmospheric concentrations of methane (CH₄) over the Greater Thessaloniki Area using data from the periods 2003–2004 and 2018–2022. Earlier data are from SCIAMACHY on ENVISAT, while the later years are from TROPOMI on Sentinel 5P. Large increases are [...] Read more.

We examine the atmospheric concentrations of methane (CH₄) over the Greater Thessaloniki Area using data from the periods 2003–2004 and 2018–2022. Earlier data are from SCIAMACHY on ENVISAT, while the later years are from TROPOMI on Sentinel 5P. Large increases are observed over this period, as expected from the overall global trend. The data show increased concentrations over the rice fields of Chalastra, biological waste treatment units and biogas plants, and garbage burial sites. The highest concentrations are observed during autumn, while the lower ones are observed during spring. The 2022 levels are around 1900 ppb. Annual increases in the examined period up to 16 ppbv (2019–2020) have been observed. During December 2021, very high CH₄ was observed over an area when no high CH₄ concentrations had been observed prior to or after this episode. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 10577 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Estimating the Effective Radiative Forcing of Anthropogenic Aerosols with the Use of CMIP6 Earth System Models

by Alkiviadis Kalisoras, Aristeidis K. Georgoulias, Dimitris Akritidis, Robert J. Allen, Vaishali Naik and Prodromos Zanis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026040 - 24 Aug 2023

Viewed by 813

Abstract

We investigate the effective radiative forcing (ERF) of anthropogenic aerosols using simulations from seven Earth System Models participating in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6). The ERF of individual aerosol species (black carbon, organic carbon, sulphates) is quantified along with the [...] Read more.

We investigate the effective radiative forcing (ERF) of anthropogenic aerosols using simulations from seven Earth System Models participating in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6). The ERF of individual aerosol species (black carbon, organic carbon, sulphates) is quantified along with the all-aerosol ERF and decomposed into its aerosol–radiation interactions (ARI), aerosol–cloud interactions (ACI) and surface albedo (ALB) components, using the method proposed by Ghan in 2013. We find that the total anthropogenic aerosol ERF at the top of the atmosphere (TOA) is negative, mainly due to aerosol–cloud interactions. Sulphates exhibit a strongly negative ERF especially over industrialized regions of the Northern Hemisphere, such as Europe, North America, East and South Asia, while black carbon exerts a positive ERF predominantly over East and South Asia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 596 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Impact of Lithium Battery Recycling and Second-Life Application on Minimizing Environmental Waste

by Dimitrios Rimpas, Stavros D. Kaminaris, Dimitrios D. Piromalis, Georgios Vokas and Vasilios A. Orfanos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026041 - 24 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2332

Abstract

In the prospect of greener transportation means and global emission limitations for the protection of the environment, the electric vehicles’ market share is constantly increasing. It is expected that 32% of new vehicles sold in 2030 will be pure electric or plug-in hybrids. [...] Read more.

In the prospect of greener transportation means and global emission limitations for the protection of the environment, the electric vehicles’ market share is constantly increasing. It is expected that 32% of new vehicles sold in 2030 will be pure electric or plug-in hybrids. As all electric vehicles utilize lithium batteries to power the powertrain, the need for rare earth materials, like lithium or nickel, exceeds the planet’s ability to provide the required capacities. Additionally, even though lithium-ion batteries provide high energy density, they have some disadvantages like a limited range and durability at high-temperature operation. This issue can be improved greatly with the implementation of a hybrid energy storage system consisting of batteries and ultracapacitors. In this paper, the power efficiency of this storage system will be analyzed. Finally, when the cells reach below a specific capacity threshold, they can be removed from the vehicle to be installed in renewable energy plants for storing surplus energy production. Therefore, environmental waste is minimized while simultaneously assisting grid power demands, before being recycled to recover a portion of the rare metals used. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1443 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Subseasonal-to-Seasonal Predictability Assessment of an Early Heat Wave in the Eastern Mediterranean in May 2020

by Dimitris Mitropoulos, Ioannis Pytharoulis, Prodromos Zanis and Christina Anagnostopoulou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026042 - 24 Aug 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 772

Abstract

Greece experienced an unusual heat wave in mid-May 2020, since it was observed earlier than the common Mediterranean heat wave period. On May 16th, the maximum air temperature at Kalamata (southern Greece) was 40 °C, and at Aydin (western Turkey) it was 41.6 [...] Read more.

Greece experienced an unusual heat wave in mid-May 2020, since it was observed earlier than the common Mediterranean heat wave period. On May 16th, the maximum air temperature at Kalamata (southern Greece) was 40 °C, and at Aydin (western Turkey) it was 41.6 °C. There was a significantly high climatological anomaly (ref: 1979–2009) relating to temperature at 850 hPa over Greece and Turkey from May 12 to May 20. The aim of this study was to evaluate how well this extreme event can be predicted at subseasonal timescales, since it is not a well-researched scientific topic by weather forecasters in the Eastern Mediterranean. Global forecasts from six meteorological centers (ECMWF, UKMO, NCEP, CMA, KMA, HMCR) and WRF simulations produced via CFS (NCEP) analyses and forecasts were examined for lead times ranging from 2 to 6 weeks ahead. The results show that skillful forecasts started 2.5 weeks before the event’s onset. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 1387 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Global Climatology (2005–2021) of Sea-Salt Aerosols Using MODIS and OMI Satellite Data

by Mastakouli Elli, Hatzianastassiou Nikos, Gavrouzou Maria, Marios-Bruno Korras-Carraca and Michalis Stamatis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026043 - 24 Aug 2023

Viewed by 562

Abstract

A global climatology of sea-salt aerosols for the 17-year period 2005–2021 is produced with a satellite algorithm that uses input data of spectral aerosol optical depth (AOD) and single scattering albedo (SSA) at 388 nm, taken from MODIS-Aqua Collection 6.1 and OMI-Aura Satellite [...] Read more.

A global climatology of sea-salt aerosols for the 17-year period 2005–2021 is produced with a satellite algorithm that uses input data of spectral aerosol optical depth (AOD) and single scattering albedo (SSA) at 388 nm, taken from MODIS-Aqua Collection 6.1 and OMI-Aura Satellite databases, respectively. The results show that the maximum frequency of occurrence of sea-salt aerosols is observed over the Southern Tropical Pacific and Indian oceans, with values up to 60 and 70 days per year, respectively, while on a global mean basis, the sea-salt aerosols are observed with a decreasing frequency from 2005 to 2021. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 2599 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Analysis of Climate-Based Conditions on Irrigation in the Bačka Region (Northern Serbia)

by Mirjana Radulović, Dragana Blagojević, Biljana Basarin and Robert Wilby

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026044 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 647

Abstract

Since climate conditions in a certain region have a significant role in setting irrigation practices, an optimized use of natural resources is needed. Therefore, climate elements, which have the most effect on plant growth and development, must be considered. This study aimed to [...] Read more.

Since climate conditions in a certain region have a significant role in setting irrigation practices, an optimized use of natural resources is needed. Therefore, climate elements, which have the most effect on plant growth and development, must be considered. This study aimed to create an indicator for irrigation applications using historical climate data for the Bačka region, characterized by a moderate continental climate. Considering daily temperature, precipitation, and evapotranspiration data from 1964 to 2012, this study examined the need for irrigation according to different climate conditions. Finally, three irrigation suggestions were provided, using the method for assigning the weights. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 2001 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Introducing the Solar Radiation and Energy Laboratory of the Eratosthenes’ Centre of Excellence: Overview of Activities

by Konstantinos Fragkos, Argyro Nisantzi, Ilias Fountoulakis, Silas Michaelides, Georgia Charalampous, Kyriakoula Papachristopoulou, Charis Kontoes, Diofantos Hadjimitsis and Stelios Kazadzis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026045 - 24 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 813

Abstract

A brief overview of the newly established Solar Radiation and Energy Laboratory of the Eratosthenes’ Centre of Excellence is provided. The laboratory focuses on fundamental research and practical applications related to solar radiation levels, radiative transfer modeling, and atmospheric effects. The laboratory’s goal [...] Read more.

A brief overview of the newly established Solar Radiation and Energy Laboratory of the Eratosthenes’ Centre of Excellence is provided. The laboratory focuses on fundamental research and practical applications related to solar radiation levels, radiative transfer modeling, and atmospheric effects. The laboratory’s goal is to establish a scientific foundation that will support some of the most important sectors of the EU and Cyprus Smart Specialization Strategy, including energy, tourism, health, and agriculture, and become a reference point for the Eastern Mediterranean, Middle East, and North African region. Finally, some preliminary results concerning solar radiation climatology and a system for clear-sky ultraviolet index forecast over Cyprus are presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1838 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The ASPIRE Project: Atmospheric Parameters Affecting Solar Irradiance and Solar Energy in Athens, Greece—Overview and Results

by Kostas Eleftheratos, Ioannis-Panagiotis Raptis, Dimitra Kouklaki, Stelios Kazadzis, Ilias Fountoulakis, Basil E. Psiloglou, Kyriakoula Papachristopoulou, Dimitra Founda, Charilaos Benetatos, Andreas Kazantzidis and Andreas Richter

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026046 - 24 Aug 2023

Viewed by 632

Abstract

The study presents results of the research project ASPIRE (atmospheric parameters affecting spectral solar irradiance and solar energy). A new dataset has been created for Athens, Greece, for one year (December 2020–November 2021), consisting of detailed measurements of spectral solar irradiance (SSI) from [...] Read more.

The study presents results of the research project ASPIRE (atmospheric parameters affecting spectral solar irradiance and solar energy). A new dataset has been created for Athens, Greece, for one year (December 2020–November 2021), consisting of detailed measurements of spectral solar irradiance (SSI) from 300 to 1020 nm and its influencing parameters (clouds, aerosols, ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, water vapor). The new dataset is explored, and major results are presented. The datasets are available to scientists from interdisciplinary scientific communities for research and education purposes. Here, we present an overview of different studies within ASPIRE, dealing with effects of different aerosol types on solar measurements and PV-related outputs and also the evaluation of a nowcasting solar model under different atmospheric conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 593 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Impact of Aeolus Wind Profile Measurements on Severe Weather Events: A COSMO NWP Case Study over Thessaly

by Ioannis Matsangouras, Evripidis Avgoustoglou, Ioannis Pytharoulis and Panagiotis Nastos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 47; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026047 - 24 Aug 2023

Viewed by 823

Abstract

The limited availability of wind profile measurements has hindered atmospheric models and climate systems’ understanding. The European Space Agency’s Aeolus mission’s space-based Doppler wind lidar technology could solve this issue by measuring wind profiles in Near-Real-Time, providing valuable data for Numerical Weather Prediction [...] Read more.

The limited availability of wind profile measurements has hindered atmospheric models and climate systems’ understanding. The European Space Agency’s Aeolus mission’s space-based Doppler wind lidar technology could solve this issue by measuring wind profiles in Near-Real-Time, providing valuable data for Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models. A case study using the COSMO NWP model demonstrates the potential of Aeolus data in improving NWP models by examining the impact of Medicane IANOS in September 2020 over the Thessaly plain. The study aims to improve our ability to predict severe weather events and advance our understanding of Earth’s atmosphere. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 3869 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Changes in Annual and Seasonal Extreme Precipitation over Southeastern Europe

by Igor Leščešen, Biljana Basarin, Zorica Podraščanin and Minučer Mesaroš

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 48; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026048 - 24 Aug 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 722

Abstract

This study examined the association between precipitation indices and atmospheric processes in Southeast Europe using ERA5 land data from 1961 to 2020. The Rx1day intensity index showed predominantly positive trends in heavy precipitation events, resulting in more intense precipitation over fewer days in [...] Read more.

This study examined the association between precipitation indices and atmospheric processes in Southeast Europe using ERA5 land data from 1961 to 2020. The Rx1day intensity index showed predominantly positive trends in heavy precipitation events, resulting in more intense precipitation over fewer days in various parts of Southeast Europe, particularly during autumn. These findings highlight the potential increase in extreme precipitation frequency and intensity due to ongoing climate change, leading to an elevated risk of flood events. Such insights provide valuable information for policymakers and stakeholders to adapt to the impacts of extreme precipitation events. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 896 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Optimization of Weather Forecast Data Using Machine Learning Algorithms

by Dimitrios Soumelidis, Georgios Karoutsos, Nikolaos Skepastianos and Nicolas Tzonichakis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026049 - 24 Aug 2023

Viewed by 2073

Abstract

Numerical weather prediction models exhibit errors while simulating atmospheric processes. To provide alerts for weather hazards, early warning systems are fed with forecast data from these models. The success of such an early warning system requires the minimization of errors that are induced [...] Read more.

Numerical weather prediction models exhibit errors while simulating atmospheric processes. To provide alerts for weather hazards, early warning systems are fed with forecast data from these models. The success of such an early warning system requires the minimization of errors that are induced by the forecast models. On the other hand, machine learning techniques have been proposed as an alternate method for nonlinear and dynamic systems due to the fact that this approach includes effective structure and parameter estimation methodologies, and it is powerful when implemented for problems whose resolutions require knowledge that is hard to specify. In this study, the goal is to implement machine learning methods as post-process algorithms on model output. The algorithm will discover the patterns that produce the errors and then lead to improved information for the system. This way, better planning and more efficient decision making are possible. High-resolution forecast data are available from Weather Research and Forecasting Model (WRF) simulations using initial and boundary conditions from the Global Forecasting System (GFS). Using nested domains, the desired downscaling can be achieved. Observations are available from General Aviation Applications 3D S.A.’s automatic weather station network, which has been operational for over 5 years. The network covers the region of Central Macedonia and has more than twenty stations. Ten of them were selected based on the availability of the data and the data quality control checks. Two sets of data are established. The first one is used to train the algorithm and the other to validate the performance of the new forecast. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 880 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A 16-Year Climatology of Polar Stratospheric Clouds Based on CALIPSO Measurements (2006–2021) and Relationship with the Stratospheric Temperatures

by Konstantinos Koutsougiannis, Michalis Stamatis, Stergios Misios and Nikos Hatzianastassiou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026050 - 24 Aug 2023

Viewed by 750

Abstract

A 16-year global climatology of polar stratospheric clouds (PSCs) for the period 2006–2021 is produced, using satellite data products from the CALIOP lidar. The original Level 2 data (at 5 km horizontal and 180 m vertical resolution, from 8.5 to 30 km) were [...] Read more.

A 16-year global climatology of polar stratospheric clouds (PSCs) for the period 2006–2021 is produced, using satellite data products from the CALIOP lidar. The original Level 2 data (at 5 km horizontal and 180 m vertical resolution, from 8.5 to 30 km) were re-gridded at 1° × 1° latitude-longitude, for 121 vertical layers, on a monthly basis. From the obtained statistics the areal coverage and fractional cloud cover of PSCs were estimated. According to our analysis, PSCs are found in altitudes ranging from 13 to 25 km above the Earth’s surface, with the maximum frequency between 18 and 22 km, peaking in July in the Southern Hemisphere, and mostly in January in the Northern. Results show that the areal extent of PSCs, at the altitude of maximum frequency of occurrence, has increased over the NH from 2006 to 2021, and decreased over the SH, but these trends are not statistically significant. Stratospheric temperatures seem to follow a similar temporal and spatial pattern as that of PSCs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1437 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Retrieval of Total NO₂ Columns Using Direct-Sun Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy Measurements in Thessaloniki

by Dimitrios Nikolis, Dimitris Karagkiozidis and Alkiviadis F. Bais

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026051 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 640

Abstract

The monitoring of trace gases in the troposphere has been routinely performed at the Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics, Thessaloniki, Greece, for a decade now, by multiple Multi-Axis Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (MAX-DOAS) instruments. Even though measurements of trace gas concentrations in the troposphere [...] Read more.

The monitoring of trace gases in the troposphere has been routinely performed at the Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics, Thessaloniki, Greece, for a decade now, by multiple Multi-Axis Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (MAX-DOAS) instruments. Even though measurements of trace gas concentrations in the troposphere are of great interest in terms of air quality, the MAX-DOAS technique is only sensitive to absorbers in the lowest few kilometers of the atmosphere. In this work, we present a methodology for the retrieval of total NO₂ columns in the atmosphere by applying the DOAS technique on direct sun spectra (DS-DOAS) measured with a new research-grade system. The advantages and limitations of the total NO₂ retrieval methodology, based on DS-DOAS, are discussed. The accuracy and the quality of the retrieved columns were assessed by comparison with a collocated Pandora system that also measures total NO₂ column amounts using a similar technique with independent calibration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 1589 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Analyzing Four Years of Ground-Based Measurements of XCO₂ and XCO over Thessaloniki, Greece Using FTIR Spectroscopy

by Thomas Panou, Chrysanthi Topaloglou, Marios Mermigkas, Dimitrios Balis, Darko Dubravica and Frank Hase

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026052 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 764

Abstract

The issue of atmospheric pollution in urban centers has become a growing concern in recent years. The increasing levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere are a major contributor to atmospheric pollution, and it is imperative to monitor these gases. This study presents [...] Read more.

The issue of atmospheric pollution in urban centers has become a growing concern in recent years. The increasing levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere are a major contributor to atmospheric pollution, and it is imperative to monitor these gases. This study presents the measurements of column-averaged dry-air mole fractions of carbon dioxide (XCO₂) and carbon monoxide (XCO) in Thessaloniki, Greece. The measurements were taken in Thessaloniki using the Bruker EM27/SUN instrument, which was developed by Bruker and KIT and has been part of the Collaborative Carbon Column Observing Network (COCCON) since 2018. COCCON is a global network of stations around the globe and serves as an important supplement to the high-resolution Bruker IFS125 spectrometer used in the Total Carbon Column Observing Network (TCCON), and it provides an increased density of column-averaged greenhouse gas observations. In this work, a four-year analysis of column-averaged dry-air mole fractions of XCO₂ and XCO is presented, focusing on diurnal and seasonal cycles as well as on the comparison between them. The hourly time series show the expected seasonal cycle of XCO₂ with a spring maximum and late summer minimum due to photosynthesis activity, while XCO₂ presents a daily maximum of 419.987 ± 2.286 ppm and a daily minimum of 405.001 ± 3.067 ppm. The seasonal co-variability between XCO₂ and XCO reveals an interesting correlation—especially during winter (

R^{2} = 0.841

for 2022) and spring (

R^{2} = 0.437 for 2022

) period, when anthropogenic emission sources occur. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1454 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Modelling the Urban Thermal Environment through the Combined Use of WRF and the Local Climate Zones Approach: Case Study for Nicosia

by Konstantina Koutroumanou-Kontosi, Constantinos Cartalis, Panos Hadjinicolaou, Katiana Constantinidou and Ilias Agathangelidis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026053 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 770

Abstract

The Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East (EMME) region is an exceptionally thermally vulnerable area, projected to suffer from frequent and severe heatwaves in the coming decades. To assess the impacts of climate change on the urban thermal environment in cities, high-resolution numerical simulations [...] Read more.

The Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East (EMME) region is an exceptionally thermally vulnerable area, projected to suffer from frequent and severe heatwaves in the coming decades. To assess the impacts of climate change on the urban thermal environment in cities, high-resolution numerical simulations are crucial. In this study, the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model is tested in order to progressively downscale the regional scale (12 km) to the local scale (1 km) and thus derive high-resolution data for the 2 m air temperature over Nicosia. Two different simulations were conducted, driven by the ERA5 re-analysis, over a two-month summer period, namely from 15 June to 15 August, 2021, to compare two different urban canopy schemes. The first simulation concerns the implementation of the bulk scheme using the default land cover of MODIS. In the second, the WRF model was coupled with the Single Layer Urban Canopy Model for a better representation of the urban characteristics of Nicosia, and detailed information on the urban form was inserted into the model via the creation of the Local Climate Zones classification scheme. A comparison between the two different physical schemes as well as an evaluation of the simulation results with observation data are performed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 3861 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Development of a Dust Mineralogy Map from Satellite Retrievals and Implementation in WRF-Chem

by Stavros Solomos, Christos Spyrou, Nikolaos S. Bartsotas, Olga Sykioti, Vassilis Amiridis, Antonios Gkikas, Eleni Marinou, Petros Katsafados, Konstantinos Tsarpalis, Goran Pejanovic, Bojan Cvetkovic, Slobodan Nickovic, Nikolaos Kalivitis, Maria Kanakidou, Nikolaos Mihalopoulos and Christos Zerefos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026054 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 816

Abstract

Mineral dust particles are key ingredients of the atmosphere. They interact in atmospheric physics and chemistry and have important implications for human health. Therefore, it is important to examine the properties of these aerosols, including their ambient concentrations, size distributions, shape and mineral [...] Read more.

Mineral dust particles are key ingredients of the atmosphere. They interact in atmospheric physics and chemistry and have important implications for human health. Therefore, it is important to examine the properties of these aerosols, including their ambient concentrations, size distributions, shape and mineral composition. In this work, we use satellite remote sensing from Sentinel 2A and EMIT missions to derive the mineralogical composition of surface areas, and we describe the development of a new module to represent the atmospheric life cycle of individual dust minerals in WRF-Chem. In the first step, the GMINER30 mineralogical database is implemented in WRF-Chem to describe the emission, transport, dry and wet deposition of different mineral types. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 2281 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Utilizing HSAF SE-E-SEVIRI (H10) Product to Track Seasonal and Monthly Variability in Snow Cover in Part of Southern Balkans

by Alexandros Paraskevas, Vasileios Skarmintzos, Theodoros Stamatopoulos, Antonios Polyzos, Ioannis Matsangouras, Konstantinos Kasapas and Panagiotis Nastos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026055 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 642

Abstract

Understanding the extent and location of snow cover is crucial for studying climate, hydrology, and ecosystems. Remote sensing, such as EUMETSAT’s H-SAF project, enables snow-cover monitoring using SEVIRI satellite data. This study analyzes the spatial variability of snow cover in the southern Balkans [...] Read more.

Understanding the extent and location of snow cover is crucial for studying climate, hydrology, and ecosystems. Remote sensing, such as EUMETSAT’s H-SAF project, enables snow-cover monitoring using SEVIRI satellite data. This study analyzes the spatial variability of snow cover in the southern Balkans over the past five years, focusing on the H10 product. Results reveal distinct seasonal dynamics, with limited snow cover during autumn and extensive cover during winter. January and February exhibit the highest snowfall probability and better snow cover persistence compared to autumn. Winter exhibits greater extent, duration, and quality of snow cover (>80% in December and January, ~70% in February). These findings contribute to regional climate understanding and water resource management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1075 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Impact of Aerosols on Surface Solar Radiation and Solar Energy in the Mediterranean Basin

by Dimitra Kouklaki, Kyriakoula Papachristopoulou, Ilias Fountoulakis, Alexandra Tsekeri, Panagiotis-Ioannis Raptis, Stelios Kazadzis and Konstantinos Eleftheratos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026056 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 743

Abstract

In this study, we examine the direct effect of atmospheric aerosols on two components of downwelling surface solar irradiance, Global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI) and Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI), under clear-sky conditions and their implications for solar energy, focusing on the broader Mediterranean Basin, [...] Read more.

In this study, we examine the direct effect of atmospheric aerosols on two components of downwelling surface solar irradiance, Global Horizontal Irradiance (GHI) and Direct Normal Irradiance (DNI), under clear-sky conditions and their implications for solar energy, focusing on the broader Mediterranean Basin, over an 18-year time period between 2003 and 2020. In addition to the aerosol optical depth (AOD) from satellite retrievals and model data that have been used in previous studies, the present study utilizes ground-based direct measurements of AOD and aerosol optical properties from the AErosol RObotic NETwork (AERONET) to assess the direct effect of aerosols on GHI and DNI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 1472 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Internal Climate Variability and Extreme Temperatures over the Mediterranean

by Christos Kourtesiotis, Quan Liu, Kostas Philippopoulos, Chris Tzanis, Daniela Matei and Helena Flocas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026057 - 25 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 795

Abstract

In this work, the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology Grand Ensemble (MPI-GE) is used to quantify the climate system’s internal variability. The MPI-GE is a large ensemble of a single state-of-the-art comprehensive climate model and its use is crucial to evaluate average changes [...] Read more.

In this work, the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology Grand Ensemble (MPI-GE) is used to quantify the climate system’s internal variability. The MPI-GE is a large ensemble of a single state-of-the-art comprehensive climate model and its use is crucial to evaluate average changes in summer monthly means and extreme temperatures. Initially, model simulations are examined in terms of their ability to accurately reproduce the observed climatic regimes in the Mediterranean region for the historical period. The ERA5 reanalysis dataset is employed as a reference and the corresponding trends and frequencies of occurrence of temperature-extreme events are compared between these datasets. Subsequently, the MPI-GE is used as a tool for examining the effect of the climate system’s internal variability focusing on the Mediterranean summer temperatures under different levels of global warming. Understanding and decoupling the effects of internal variability and anthropogenic forcing on climate trends remain a key challenge. It is found that in the rcp8.5 scenario, the frequency of summer extreme temperatures is higher than that in the rcp2.6 scenario. Especially in the Greek region, the frequency is 1.5 times higher in rcp8.5 than in rcp2.6 Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 5474 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Synoptic Aspects of the Supercell of Halkidiki, 10 July 2019

by D. Brikas, P. Siomos, I. Nikolaou, A. Nikolopoulos, D. Papadopoulou-Papaioannou and T. Diomis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026058 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 710

Abstract

A synoptic study of the supercell of 10 July 2019, Halkidiki, Greece, shows that the gradual approach of a cold front from the north and a short-wave trough from the WSW brought into juxtaposition Saharan and polar air masses, creating a dynamical and [...] Read more.

A synoptic study of the supercell of 10 July 2019, Halkidiki, Greece, shows that the gradual approach of a cold front from the north and a short-wave trough from the WSW brought into juxtaposition Saharan and polar air masses, creating a dynamical and thermodynamical environment favourable for severe convection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 617 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Technology Review of Decarbonization: Efficient Techniques for Producing Hydrogen as Fuel

by Ilias Chrysocheris, Evangelos C. Papakitsos, Dimitrios Piromalis and Nikolaos Laskaris

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026059 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 853

Abstract

Climate change is obvious in many ways. The weather changes rapidly from day to day, reaching high temperatures, such as 28 °C, one day and heavy rain the next, with temperatures below 18 °C. There are also very strong storms caused by this [...] Read more.

Climate change is obvious in many ways. The weather changes rapidly from day to day, reaching high temperatures, such as 28 °C, one day and heavy rain the next, with temperatures below 18 °C. There are also very strong storms caused by this phenomenon. The way the environment acts is different than the current epoch would predict, indicating a long-term shift in weather and temperature patterns. The mean temperature of earth is rising due to the greenhouse effect that is caused by human activity and mostly by the burning of fossil fuel, emitting CO₂ and other pollutant gasses. Nowadays, every country is trying to lower CO₂ emissions from everyday human activities, a movement called “decarbonization”. Since the 18th century there has been a great deal of research carried out on possible alternatives to fossil fuels. Some of the work was just to discover ways to power heaters or automotive vehicle, but there is a great deal of work remaining to complete regarding this issue after discovering the greenhouse effect and its impact on the planet’s climate, in order to eliminate it by using fuel whose combustion emissions are more environmentally friendly. In the present work, many discoveries will be presented that use hydrogen (H₂) or hydroxy (H-OH) as fuel. The main reason for this is the emission of pure water after combustion, but the most interesting part is the approach every scientist uses to create the fuel gas from water. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 2068 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Impact of Ocean–Atmosphere Coupling on the Prediction of Mediterranean Cyclones: A Case Study of Medicane Ianos

by John Karagiorgos, Ioannis Samos, Vassilios Vervatis, Sarantis Sofianos and Helena Flocas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026060 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 862

Abstract

Intense cyclones with tropical-like characteristics (also known as “medicanes”) occasionally develop in the Mediterranean. They can cause extreme weather phenomena with catastrophic potential due to excessive precipitation, windstorms, and coastal flooding. In this work, the impact of air–sea interactions on the track and [...] Read more.

Intense cyclones with tropical-like characteristics (also known as “medicanes”) occasionally develop in the Mediterranean. They can cause extreme weather phenomena with catastrophic potential due to excessive precipitation, windstorms, and coastal flooding. In this work, the impact of air–sea interactions on the track and intensity of a Mediterranean cyclone is evaluated using an atmosphere-only configuration (WRF) and a two-way coupled ocean–atmosphere configuration (NEMO-WRF). As a case study, we focus on a medicane that evolved over the central Mediterranean basin during 15–20 September 2020 (named “Ianos”), causing severe damage to western Greece. The atmosphere-only simulations were carried out using constant initial SST throughout the model integration, while in the coupling setup, the SST was consistent with the air–sea fluxes and updated every 6 min by the ocean model. The results from the two modeling approaches highlight the importance of air–sea feedbacks for predicting Mediterranean cyclone intensity, along with the forecast initialization time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 2929 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Satellite-Based Evaluation of Upper-Level Aviation Turbulence Events over Europe during November 2009: A Case Study

by Vasileios T. Gerogiannis and Haralambos Feidas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026061 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 754

Abstract

Aviation turbulence is a major concern for flight safety. Detecting and nowcasting upper-level turbulence is usually associated with known sources of turbulence, such as convective clouds and transverse cirrus bands. However, in extended clear-air conditions where no optical indicators are present, this can [...] Read more.

Aviation turbulence is a major concern for flight safety. Detecting and nowcasting upper-level turbulence is usually associated with known sources of turbulence, such as convective clouds and transverse cirrus bands. However, in extended clear-air conditions where no optical indicators are present, this can be challenging for both aviation forecasters and pilots. This study aims to evaluate heavy–severe aviation scale turbulence events over 20.000 ft, by utilizing satellite data from MSG SEVIRI radiometer and in situ turbulence reports from en-route aircraft flights over Europe. We analyze 92 heavy–severe turbulence events during November 2009. The results could give an estimate of possible turbulence detection to pilots and aviation forecasters to identify and avoid upper-level turbulence, increasing flight safety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 2577 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Microclimate Monitoring Using Wireless Sensors for the Conservation of Cultural Heritage: The Case of the Holy Cross Hermitage in Olympus Area, Greece

by Christiana Papitsi, Theodore Ganetsos, Meropi Katsantoni, Christos Drosos and Eleni Symeonaki

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026062 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 745

Abstract

This work presents an approach for wirelessly monitoring the indoor temperature, relative humidity, and carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentration parameters affecting the microclimate of the Holy Cross hermitage, which extends into a small cave located in the Olympus area of Greece and [...] Read more.

This work presents an approach for wirelessly monitoring the indoor temperature, relative humidity, and carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentration parameters affecting the microclimate of the Holy Cross hermitage, which extends into a small cave located in the Olympus area of Greece and maintains remarkable wall paintings dated back to 1339 A.D. The results indicate that the methodology applied was effective enough in maintaining a long-term monitoring process and, as a result, comprehending the ambient conditions of the hermitage with regard to its microclimate. In this context, it would be possible to identify any imminent hazards in time and therefore plan the required conservation actions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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8 pages, 1076 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Conductivity Transport Mechanisms of Solution-Processed Spinel Nickel Cobaltite-Based Hole Transporting Layers and Its Implementation as Charge Selective Contact in Organic Photovoltaics

by Apostolos Ioakeimidis, Aristeidis Kottaras, Dimitrios Karageorgopoulos, Efstathia Christia, Sotirios Sakkopoulos, Evangelos Vitoratos, Stelios A. Choulis and Ioannis T. Papadas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026063 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 760

Abstract

The electrical properties of solution-processed spinel nickel cobaltite (NiCo₂O₄) nanoparticulated-based metal oxide hole transporting layers are investigated using conductivity and Hall effect measurements. The mechanism of electrical conductivity of NiCo₂O₄-based electronic films as a function [...] Read more.

The electrical properties of solution-processed spinel nickel cobaltite (NiCo₂O₄) nanoparticulated-based metal oxide hole transporting layers are investigated using conductivity and Hall effect measurements. The mechanism of electrical conductivity of NiCo₂O₄-based electronic films as a function of temperature indicates hopping-type carrier transport. We show that NiCo₂O₄ hole transporting layers (HTLs) have suitable conductivity, low toxicity, and relatively low processing temperature, parameters that are important for electronic materials specifications of high performance and environmentally friendly emerging photovoltaics. As a proof of concept, NiCo₂O₄ and Cu-SCN surface-modified NiCo₂O₄ are incorporated as HTLs for non-fullerene acceptor Organic Photovoltaics (OPVs), and the photovoltaic performance results of the corresponding OPVs are presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1083 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Snowball Earth Episodes

by Angelos Siozos, Fragiskos Markozanes, Georgios Gagaras, Iliana Polychroni, Konstantinos Laios, Sotirios Arsenis, Vasiliki Roussi and Christina Papaioannou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026064 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1953

Abstract

Throughout the history of Earth, significant changes in its climate and consequent alterations to its surface have been recorded. One of the most extreme forms is the complete coverage of the planet by ice, known as Snowball Earth. This theory explains numerous findings [...] Read more.

Throughout the history of Earth, significant changes in its climate and consequent alterations to its surface have been recorded. One of the most extreme forms is the complete coverage of the planet by ice, known as Snowball Earth. This theory explains numerous findings from archaeological studies conducted worldwide during the Neoproterozoic Period. However, despite increasing evidence of intense climatic fluctuations occurring during this period, the theory of complete ice coverage is not widely accepted by the scientific community. In this work, we present a critical bibliographic review of the main points of this theory, shedding light on its key aspects and unresolved debates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 3629 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Synoptic, Dynamic Analysis and Numerical Simulations of Extreme Flood Cases in Pieria Region

by Dimitrios Bampzelis, Stergios Kartsios, Ioannis Pytharoulis, Vassilios Kostopoulos, Christos Spyrou, Ioannis Tegoulias and Prodromos Zanis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026065 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 570

Abstract

The synoptic and dynamic characteristics of three extreme precipitation events over the area of Pieria are analyzed. The objective of this study is to identify similarities in structure, intensity and behavior of the synoptic patterns that were responsible for the extreme precipitation over [...] Read more.

The synoptic and dynamic characteristics of three extreme precipitation events over the area of Pieria are analyzed. The objective of this study is to identify similarities in structure, intensity and behavior of the synoptic patterns that were responsible for the extreme precipitation over the examined area. Precipitation-derived data from weather radar images were also used to identify the intensity and extent of the events. The high-resolution non-hydrostatic WRF-ARW numerical weather prediction model was also used to simulate these intense precipitation events. Results indicated analogous synoptic conditions in all three cases suggesting the strong synoptic forcing of the events in extreme precipitation over the area. The model was able to capture these events adequately, even though discrepancies occurred regarding the intensity and the location of the precipitation maxima. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1859 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Non-Boussinesq Taylor–Caulfield Instability

by Theodoros Tolidis and Nikolaos A. Bakas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026066 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 577

Abstract

The study of the conditions under which a stratified shear flow becomes turbulent is important, as turbulence is the source of mixing and dissipation in the atmosphere and can significantly influence the momentum and temperature structure of the atmospheric circulation. Oftentimes, the density [...] Read more.

The study of the conditions under which a stratified shear flow becomes turbulent is important, as turbulence is the source of mixing and dissipation in the atmosphere and can significantly influence the momentum and temperature structure of the atmospheric circulation. Oftentimes, the density structure of atmospheric flows is organized in thick layers of constant density separated by thin layers of sharp density gradients. It has been shown by previous studies that such multilayered flows can become unstable under shear. In this work, we investigate Taylor–Caulfield Instability (TCI), which occurs in a three-layer fluid moving with a constant shear flow. Previous studies examined the instability under the Boussinesq approximation, which is not expected to hold in cases of sharp density gradients. The non-Boussinesq limit is therefore investigated in this work. TCI is studied using the classical perturbation theory, that is by examining the evolution of small perturbations to the base flow. The wavelength of the waves expected to dominate the flow as well as the time in which these waves will emerge are calculated. In addition, the characteristics of the unstable waves are studied under a variety of conditions for the shear and the stratification. It is found that under the Boussinesq approximation, the wavelength of the instability waves is underestimated and the time for the evolution of the waves is overestimated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1425 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Calculation of Inhaled Dose of Particulate Matter for Different Age Groups in the Metro Public Transport System in Athens, Greece

by Dimitrios-Michael Rodanas, Konstantinos Moustris and Georgios Spyropoulos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026067 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1054

Abstract

Public transportation has been an essential part of the urban lifestyle and a necessary means for effective transportation within most of the capital cities worldwide. That is why there is a great need for further monitoring and evaluation of the health impacts in [...] Read more.

Public transportation has been an essential part of the urban lifestyle and a necessary means for effective transportation within most of the capital cities worldwide. That is why there is a great need for further monitoring and evaluation of the health impacts in Public Transportation (PT) due to air quality. Specifically, in this work the Athens metro was monitored throughout different hours of the day and studied in order to evaluate the average particulate matter (PM) exposure for a passenger. A strong emphasis was given in calculating the inhalation dose of PM_2.5 over time. By considering the ventilation rate of a passenger an estimation of the total PM_2.5 inhalation dose for males and females as well as for different age groups was made. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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9 pages, 251 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Impact Assessment of Climate Change on Public Health: A Global Perspective

by Efthymia Koliokosta

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026068 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 966

Abstract

Climate change is unquestionable and climate disasters are projected to increase in frequency and intensity. The adverse effects of climate change on people’s health are significant and depend on the type of climate hazard that threatens vulnerable populations in different regions around the [...] Read more.

Climate change is unquestionable and climate disasters are projected to increase in frequency and intensity. The adverse effects of climate change on people’s health are significant and depend on the type of climate hazard that threatens vulnerable populations in different regions around the world. The climate change impacts on public health include not only the direct effects on people’s physical and mental health, but also the side effects of climate change on critical infrastructure and systems that are involved in assisting healthcare operations. This paper develops a methodology for assessing the impacts of climate extremes based on people’s and systems’ vulnerabilities and builds a global framework for assessing the public health risk of climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

6 pages, 2987 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Impact of Climate Change on Olive Crop Production in Halkidiki, Greece

by Ilias Kalfas, Christina Anagnostopoulou and Errikos Michail Manios

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026069 - 25 Aug 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2245

Abstract

One of the main crops cultivated in Greece is the olive tree. In recent years, olives around the Mediterranean Basin and especially in Greece have been facing increasingly high temperatures and are more often exposed to water deficits, inducing severe abiotic stress, thus [...] Read more.

One of the main crops cultivated in Greece is the olive tree. In recent years, olives around the Mediterranean Basin and especially in Greece have been facing increasingly high temperatures and are more often exposed to water deficits, inducing severe abiotic stress, thus affecting plant physiology and productivity. Future projections point to a general increase in temperature of up to 2 °C. Precipitation is projected to decrease in northwestern Halkidiki, leading to enhanced water needs and resulting in a possible decrease in yield. The increase in temperature, especially in the winter season, seems to impact flowering buds. The small number of days with low temperatures resulting in reduced flowering during spring will decrease the quantity and quality of olives and oil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 4554 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Performance of the Aerosol Species Separation Algorithm (ASSA) Using Data from a Raman-Depolarization Lidar System at Thessaloniki, Greece

by Konstantinos Michailidis, Nikolaos Siomos and Dimitris Balis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026070 - 25 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 611

Abstract

The aerosol species separation algorithm (ASSA) is a method designed to retrieve vertical concentration profiles of individual aerosol species by combining measurements from lidar systems and spectrophotometers. The ASSA operates as a forward model, simulating as the first step the attenuated backscatter and [...] Read more.

The aerosol species separation algorithm (ASSA) is a method designed to retrieve vertical concentration profiles of individual aerosol species by combining measurements from lidar systems and spectrophotometers. The ASSA operates as a forward model, simulating as the first step the attenuated backscatter and volume depolarization ratios at various wavelengths initially measured by lidar systems. Subsequently, it extends these simulations to reproduce radiance spectra obtained from co-located spectrophotometers by integrating a radiative transfer model. Currently, the ASSA relies on a lookup table (LUT) of intensive aerosol properties that correspond to mixtures generated from up to eight pure aerosol species as these are defined in the OPAC database. In this study we are focusing on the first step and investigating the performance of the algorithm when solely fitting nighttime data from the Thessaloniki lidar system are used. The algorithm identifies the ensemble of mixture/mass concentration combinations that best fit the elastic and Raman 4 primary species attenuated backscatter and depolarization ratio profiles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1380 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Estimating the Air Pollution Intake Dose in Three Port Cities in Europe with the Use of Ambient Fine Particulate Matter Measurements from Low-Cost Sensors

by Efstratia Karagiannopoulou, Kyriaki-Maria Fameli, Christos Tsitsis, Konstantinos Moustris and Kleopatra Ntourou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026071 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 587

Abstract

In urban areas, people live under poor air quality conditions since exceedances in limit concentrations set by the European Union are usually recorded. In port cities, air quality is further deteriorated due to emissions from port activities. This work investigates the variation in [...] Read more.

In urban areas, people live under poor air quality conditions since exceedances in limit concentrations set by the European Union are usually recorded. In port cities, air quality is further deteriorated due to emissions from port activities. This work investigates the variation in fine Particulate Matter (PM_2.5) through the recordings of PurpleAir low-cost sensors in Aarhus, Hamburg, and Lisbon, which are in northern, central, and southern Europe, respectively, for the period of 2020–2022. Moreover, the calculation of the Intake Dose (ID) was attempted for active population groups of men and women aged from 21 to 61 years old. The results showed that the male population groups of active working ages generally inhale higher amounts of particulate matters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 917 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Projections of Heat-Related Mortality under the Impact of Climate Change in Thessaloniki, Greece

by Daphne Parliari, Stavros Keppas, Sofia Papadogiannaki, Giorgos Papadopoulos, Serafeim Kontos and Dimitrios Melas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026072 - 25 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 893

Abstract

The present study estimates the future impact of climate change on heat-related mortality in Thessaloniki, Greece. Mortality attributed to high temperatures will increase from 0.64% (95% eCI = −1.12, 2.48) to 3.32% (95% eCI: 0.52, 6.1), whereas cold-related mortality will be reduced from [...] Read more.

The present study estimates the future impact of climate change on heat-related mortality in Thessaloniki, Greece. Mortality attributed to high temperatures will increase from 0.64% (95% eCI = −1.12, 2.48) to 3.32% (95% eCI: 0.52, 6.1), whereas cold-related mortality will be reduced from 0.7% (95% eCI = −2.24, 3.31) to 0.37% (95% eCI = −1.63, 2.2). Overall, the excess total mortality attributed to temperature will be increased by 2.33% in the future. Among the elderly, high temperatures will cause 5.14% of deaths, highlighting their increased vulnerability. These findings emphasize the urgent need for targeted public health planning, mitigation, and adaptation strategies to address the health effects of climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1563 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Investigation of the Influence of Stratospheric Shear on Baroclinic Instability

by Christos Gkoulekas and Nikolaos A. Bakas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026073 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 822

Abstract

Baroclinic instability is one of the main mechanisms for the formation of synoptic scale systems. Previous studies examined the exponential growth of small perturbations for a stably stratified troposphere in the case of a constant meridional temperature gradient ignoring the stratosphere (Eady’s model). [...] Read more.

Baroclinic instability is one of the main mechanisms for the formation of synoptic scale systems. Previous studies examined the exponential growth of small perturbations for a stably stratified troposphere in the case of a constant meridional temperature gradient ignoring the stratosphere (Eady’s model). However, since stratospheric flow also affects to some extent the motions in the troposphere, in this work we investigate the effect of stratospheric wind shear on baroclinic instability using the tools of Generalized Stability Theory (GST). GST is a linear stability theory that addresses both the exponential growth of perturbations that is pertinent in the large time asymptotic limit and the transient growth of perturbations at finite time. The optimal initial perturbations leading to the largest growth over a specified time interval are calculated for three main cases of stratospheric shear: positive, zero and negative shear over the stratosphere. It is found that the inclusion of stratospheric shear in all three cases decreases perturbation growth and influences the scale of the structures that will dominate the flow. For optimizing times of the order of a week, the development of systems with larger spatial scale compared to the prediction of the Eady model is expected, while for optimizing times of the order of a day, smaller scale systems are found to develop. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1493 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Contribution of Carbonaceous Aerosols to Air Pollution and Excess Mortality in Europe

by Niki Paisi, Jonilda Kushta and Jos Lelieveld

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026074 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 785

Abstract

Air pollution is an important environmental risk factor associated with increased morbidity and excess mortality. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is a complex mixture of both organic and inorganic compounds, depending on emissions sources and atmospheric chemistry. According to toxicological studies, there is strong [...] Read more.

Air pollution is an important environmental risk factor associated with increased morbidity and excess mortality. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is a complex mixture of both organic and inorganic compounds, depending on emissions sources and atmospheric chemistry. According to toxicological studies, there is strong evidence that anthropogenic carbonaceous aerosols, especially those emitted from combustion sources, are more hazardous to human health than other types of fine particles. In this study, we use WRF-Chem to simulate PM2.5 and the carbonaceous sub-components (black carbon and organics from anthropogenic sources) over Europe. The excess mortality attributed to long-term exposure to these particles is quantified using the MR-BRT (meta-Regression–Bayesian, regularized, trimmed) and the Global Exposure Mortality Model (GEMM) exposure–response functions to assess the public health outcomes. Differential toxicity of carbonaceous aerosols is assumed to account for their potentially more pronounced effect on excess mortality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 810 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Return Periods in Assessing Climate Change Risks: Uses and Misuses

by Efthymia Koliokosta

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026075 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 3765

Abstract

Return periods (Ts) are used to estimate the interval of time between natural hazard occurrences of a certain size and assess the risks associated with hydrological occurrences, climate extremes, structural failures and seismicity. Despite Ts being widely used, they are characterized by [...] Read more.

Return periods (Ts) are used to estimate the interval of time between natural hazard occurrences of a certain size and assess the risks associated with hydrological occurrences, climate extremes, structural failures and seismicity. Despite Ts being widely used, they are characterized by strong misconceptions and ambiguities. Moreover, although they have been successfully used when discussing storm surges, high tides and extreme precipitation, concerns arise from their use in assessing probabilities of future global mean sea level rise (SLR). Most papers discuss SLR return periods considering storm surges or high tides and not SLR itself, as a separate and unique hazard. Sea level rise due to storm surges or tides is regional and temporary and differs from the global SLR, which is a long lasting and slow phenomenon. This paper discusses these misconceptions and misuses of return periods in assessing flood risk and the probability of sea level rise at the global level and suggests a method for assessing likelihoods of climate change risks that can be widely accepted and commonly used by all stakeholders and decision makers for all types of climate hazards. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1043 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Environmental Impact of Urban Design Elements in a Mediterranean City

by Areti Tseliou, Emmanouil Melas, Athina Mela and Ioannis Tsiros

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026076 - 25 Aug 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 835

Abstract

Today, high-density building areas, along with low albedo construction materials and a lack of green spaces, have led to higher urban temperatures. Climate change significantly intensifies the magnitude of urban overheating and the frequency of extreme heat events is expected to increase over [...] Read more.

Today, high-density building areas, along with low albedo construction materials and a lack of green spaces, have led to higher urban temperatures. Climate change significantly intensifies the magnitude of urban overheating and the frequency of extreme heat events is expected to increase over time. The aim of this research is to showcase new insights into the cooling effects of urban elements and layouts in a residential area consisting of several building blocks in a Mediterranean city (Athens). The microclimatic model ENVI-met was applied to simulate thermal conditions for a typical summer day. Thermal conditions were evaluated according to air temperature and the estimations of the Universal Climate Thermal Index (UTCI, °C). The results showed that during the hottest hours of the day (11:00–17:00), among the examined design layouts, courtyards and the NS street induced the lower heat stress conditions, that fluctuated within the ‘Moderate heat stress’ condition. On the opposite end, the EW street, the avenue, the trees, and the pavement-affected areas induced ‘Very strong heat stress’ conditions. The maximum UTCI value, 40.9 °C (15:00 LST), was obtained in the areas affected by the EW street. The findings of this study highlighted the urban design layout patterns that enhance the development of hotspots and should be considered when designing mitigation strategies in cities with a Mediterranean climate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 2290 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Variability of Aerosol Properties Using AERONET Retrievals and Relation between Aerosol Optical Depth and PM Levels at Ioannina, Greece 2022

by Stefanos Nasikas, Konstantinos Michailidis, Maria Gavrouzou, Michael Stamatis, Dimitris Balis and Nikolaos Hatzianastassiou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026077 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 676

Abstract

In this study, we try to characterize local aerosols over the city of Ioannina for the first time using continuous AERONET CIMEL Sun–Sky spectral photometer measurements. The instrument, which belongs to the Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, was [...] Read more.

In this study, we try to characterize local aerosols over the city of Ioannina for the first time using continuous AERONET CIMEL Sun–Sky spectral photometer measurements. The instrument, which belongs to the Laboratory of Atmospheric Physics of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, was installed in 2022 at the University of Ioannina and operated for a 5-month period from 23 February to 30 June 2022. Based on its measurements and retrievals, we investigate aerosol optical properties on a monthly, daily and hourly mean basis and reveal relationships between Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) and local particulate matter (PM). It is found that the 5-month mean AOD is 0.17, from which 0.08 is ascribed to fine-mode and 0.09 to coarse-mode aerosols, while the corresponding mean Angstrom Exponent is 0.95. The total PM, PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 concentrations for the same period are equal to 32.51, 22.39 and 11.40 μg/m³, respectively. The correlation coefficient between PM₁₀ and AOD_500nm is equal to 0.79, and the one between the PM_2.5/PM₁₀ ratio and the Fine-Mode Fraction of AOD is equal to 0.76. Events of episodic fine and coarse aerosol conditions, which took place during the study period, are also analyzed using AERONET Volume Size Distribution (VSD) inversion products, along with back trajectories obtained with the NOAA’s HYSPLIT model, to assure the origin of the particles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 1457 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Fatigue of Mechanical Structures from Cyclic Wind Actions

by Anis Sulejmani and Odhisea Koça

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026078 - 28 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 625

Abstract

It is difficult to analyse the action force of the wind in a way that considers the change in the height of its action, the change in direction, or the momentum required for the time of its action. Depending on the design codes [...] Read more.

It is difficult to analyse the action force of the wind in a way that considers the change in the height of its action, the change in direction, or the momentum required for the time of its action. Depending on the design codes of structures and buildings, wind action can be static or dynamic. In this article, we study the dynamic action of the wind on engineering structures (the object of study in this paper is truss structures), analysing in detail the phenomenon of pulsating cyclic loads and the fatigue of the elements of the structures because of its impact. First, we determine the cycle of the wind action, after which we extract its characteristics, such as the average load, the asymmetry of the cycle, the amplitude, and the frequency of the action using the data obtained for the wind from the meteorological services. Then, we evaluate the structure’s life by assessing the damage caused by this loading and cumulative accumulation. Also, in this material, we treat a specific case of a crane structure, where all the characteristics of wind action in the case of cyclic loads have been determined and the construction factor has been extracted as a characteristic that can be used in fast calculation by different engineers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 1140 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Comparative Measurements of Air Pollution Using Low-Cost Sensors in the Center of Athens and the Mt. Hymettus Aesthetic Forest

by Marianna Basoulou and Georgios Spyropoulos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026079 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1257

Abstract

Air pollution is a global environmental issue that primarily affects the health of city residents. The purpose of this study was to comprehensively assess air pollution levels in the center of Athens and compare them with those in the peri urban Mt. Hymettus [...] Read more.

Air pollution is a global environmental issue that primarily affects the health of city residents. The purpose of this study was to comprehensively assess air pollution levels in the center of Athens and compare them with those in the peri urban Mt. Hymettus Aesthetic Forest. To achieve this, two low-cost sensors, namely, the “PurpleAir PA-II-SD,” were combined with the employed methodology. The first sensor was stationed at a fixed central point in the Mt. Hymettus Aesthetic Forest, whereas the second one captured measurements along a specific route among six points in the historic center of Athens during the summer of 2021. The pollutants measured included PM₁₀, PM_2.5, and PM₁, as well as temperature and humidity. The research findings indicated that all pollutant values were significantly higher in the center of Athens, particularly in terms of PM_2.5, which exceeded the permissible limits set by the European Commission. Furthermore, notable variations in temperature were observed in both areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 1773 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

S.Ind.Ai.R.—School Network for Indoor Air Quality and Radon: An Innovative Platform for the Flexible Development of Indoor Environment Research Projects in Greek Schools

by Evangelos Batris, Evangelia Georgaki, Dimitrios Nikolopoulos, Ioannis Valais and Konstantinos Moustris

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026080 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 647

Abstract

Indoor air quality (radon, pollution, thermal fatigue, ventilation) is crucial for health and performance, especially for children. It is necessary to increase public awareness about the significance of air quality, particularly radon. Environmental school networks can enhance public awareness and provide research opportunities [...] Read more.

Indoor air quality (radon, pollution, thermal fatigue, ventilation) is crucial for health and performance, especially for children. It is necessary to increase public awareness about the significance of air quality, particularly radon. Environmental school networks can enhance public awareness and provide research opportunities for scientists. SINDAIR, a school network based on SIMA-AEP, provides a flexible platform for larger scale educational and research projects. SINDAIR is in its pilot phase, involving various schools around Greece. With the assistance of UniWA, SINDAIR has started a pilot radon measuring campaign. Preliminary results show increased radon concentrations in certain school rooms, higher than expected, justifying further radon risk and air quality assessment, management, and perception programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 3680 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Statistical Downscaling of ERA5 Reanalysis Precipitation over the Complex Terrain of Greece

by Giorgos E. Ntagkounakis, Panagiotis T. Nastos and Yiannis Kapsomenakis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026081 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1114

Abstract

In this study, we present the preliminary results of our effort to construct a new high spatial resolution precipitation database (1 km × 1 km) over Greece, on an annual and monthly basis. A variety of spatial parameters (i.e., latitude, longitude, altitude, aspect, [...] Read more.

In this study, we present the preliminary results of our effort to construct a new high spatial resolution precipitation database (1 km × 1 km) over Greece, on an annual and monthly basis. A variety of spatial parameters (i.e., latitude, longitude, altitude, aspect, distance from water bodies, among others) and ERA5 reanalysis data were used as independent variables in an algorithm combined with the Regression Kriging with a Histogram-Based Gradient-Boosting Regression Tree. The dependent variable in the algorithm was the gauge data covering most of the area studied. Μaps were constructed for the ERA5 reanalysis and the modelled mean precipitation totals on an annual and monthly basis for the 1980–2010 study period. The findings of the analysis show that the applied methodology improves the spatial resolution and distribution of the ERA5 reanalysis precipitation totals over Greece. Furthermore, when comparing the modelled high spatial resolution datasets against ERA5 datasets over the gauge precipitation totals, the model achieved an average R² improvement of 31.7%, with the largest improvement recorded on an annual basis, while the RMSE decreased by 16.6% on average and more than 40% on an annual basis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 3285 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Climatology of Dust Aerosol Episodes over Asia and the Caspian Sea

by Petros A. Belimezis, Nikolaos Hatzianastassiou, Maria Gavrouzou and Marios-Bruno Korras-Carraca

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026082 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 561

Abstract

In the present study, a satellite algorithm is used to identify Dust Aerosol Episodes (DAEs) over the wide region of Asia and the Caspian Sea, aiming to determine their spatial and temporal distribution by applying threshold values on key aerosol optical properties, emphasizing [...] Read more.

In the present study, a satellite algorithm is used to identify Dust Aerosol Episodes (DAEs) over the wide region of Asia and the Caspian Sea, aiming to determine their spatial and temporal distribution by applying threshold values on key aerosol optical properties, emphasizing their frequency of occurrence and intensity, during 2005–2021. Based on the algorithm outputs, a climatology of spatiotemporally extended Asian DAEs is built, emphasizing their interannual variability and tendencies over the 17-year study period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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4 pages, 854 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Deep Learning Framework for Estimating Global and Diffuse Solar Irradiance Using All-Sky Images

by Vasileios Salamalikis, Panayiotis Tzoumanikas and Andreas Kazantzidis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026083 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 704

Abstract

Nowadays, all-sky imagers (ASI) provide valuable information regarding the sky’s state, and they have been extensively used in cloud detection, segmentation, and solar forecasting studies. In this study, global and diffuse horizontal irradiances (GHI and DHI) are modeled using a Convolutional Neural Network [...] Read more.

Nowadays, all-sky imagers (ASI) provide valuable information regarding the sky’s state, and they have been extensively used in cloud detection, segmentation, and solar forecasting studies. In this study, global and diffuse horizontal irradiances (GHI and DHI) are modeled using a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and Red–Green–Blue (RGB) information retrieved through ASI images. The predicted GHI and DHI underestimated observations with systematic biases of −1.8 W m⁻² and −0.5 W m⁻², while the dispersion errors were 82.7 W m⁻² and 39.8 W m⁻², respectively. The correlation coefficient was high, approaching 0.95 and 0.85 for GHI and DHI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1261 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Exploring the Association of Heat Stress and Human Health in Cyprus

by Fragkeskos Kekkou, Georgia Lazoglou, Theo Economou and Christina Anagnostopoulou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026084 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 744

Abstract

High temperatures during the summer months are a common feature in countries with a Mediterranean climate, such as Cyprus and Greece. However, anthropogenic climate change is responsible for the increase in the frequency, intensity and duration of extreme high temperatures in the wider [...] Read more.

High temperatures during the summer months are a common feature in countries with a Mediterranean climate, such as Cyprus and Greece. However, anthropogenic climate change is responsible for the increase in the frequency, intensity and duration of extreme high temperatures in the wider Eastern Mediterranean region, especially since 1990. At the same time, future climate projections show that high temperatures and heatwaves that were observed at the beginning of the 21st century and characterized as extreme will become the norm in the coming years. This study confirms the increasing trend in maximum and minimum temperature for the last four decades in Cyprus. Bioclimatic indices provide a measure of human thermal discomfort caused by the thermal environment. In the present study, the UTCI index from the dataset ERA5-HEAT was used to estimate the heat stress of the average person under conditions of heat events. The spatial distribution of maximum monthly UTCI_daily values was carried out for the period 2004–2019. At the same time, the correlation of patient admissions to hospitals, as well as the relationship of mortality with high UTCI_daily values, was assessed. Mortality data and data from eight public hospitals located in five districts of Cyprus were analyzed as obtained from the Ministry of Health and the Cyprus Statistical Service. The data reveal that UTCI_daily values were positively associated with hospital admissions and mortality in some cases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 720 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Source Apportionment of the Atmospheric Aerosol in Western Macedonia, GREECE, Part 1: Concentrations of Metallic Components, Major Ions, and PAHs in PM10 Samples

by Stylianos Gkaras, Eleni Triantafyllou, Anna Dougali, Christos Diamantopoulos, Evangelos Tolis and Athanasios Triantafyllou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026085 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 531

Abstract

The government decision to promote the change of energy mix has led to a serious decrease in industrial activities in the energy basin of Western Macedonia and subsequently had a positive influence on the air quality of the region. To examine the fact [...] Read more.

The government decision to promote the change of energy mix has led to a serious decrease in industrial activities in the energy basin of Western Macedonia and subsequently had a positive influence on the air quality of the region. To examine the fact and estimate the current atmospheric emission sources, PM10 samples were collected at different sites in Western Macedonia, Greece, from February 2022 to May 2023 and were analyzed for metallic components, major ions, and PAHs. The dataset was then analyzed using PMF and CMB model to identify the possible emission sources. In this study, the first results are presented and discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 9134 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

January 2023: An Extremely Warm Winter Month in Thessaloniki, Greece

by Kondylia Velikou and Konstantia Tolika

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026086 - 25 Aug 2023

Viewed by 601

Abstract

During the last few years, extremely high temperatures have been recorded in many Greek regions and, in some cases, have been rather abnormal for each season. These extreme events appear to be persistent in duration and are occurring at a disconcerting frequency. The [...] Read more.

During the last few years, extremely high temperatures have been recorded in many Greek regions and, in some cases, have been rather abnormal for each season. These extreme events appear to be persistent in duration and are occurring at a disconcerting frequency. The main objective of this study is to examine the exceptionally high temperatures that were recorded during January 2023 in Thessaloniki, Greece. The entire month was characterized by minimum and maximum temperatures that exceeded the climatological mean (1961–2000) by about 4.2 °C on average. Additionally, the average deviation for the mean maximum temperature of the month was calculated at 3.5 °C. In an attempt to classify the intensity of this possible extreme event compared to a future intermediate emission scenario (RCP4.5), a comparison of the observational data with the corresponding data from two future projections (2041–2060 and 2081–2100) of a high-resolution regional climate model was carried out. The spatial resolution of the simulations was 10 × 10 km and they were the result of the dynamical downscaling of the RegCM regional climate model after nesting a 25 km simulation of the model for the initial and boundary conditions. Finally, through this study, the contribution of the synoptic-scale atmospheric conditions of this event was examined. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1551 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Characteristics of Long-Lived Coherent Vortices in a Simple Model of Quasi-Geostrophic Turbulence

by Nikolaos A. Bakas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026087 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 695

Abstract

Macroscale turbulence in the atmosphere is observed to be self-organized into large-scale structures such as zonal jets and robust waves and vortices. A simple model containing the relevant dynamics of turbulence self-organization is quasi-geostrophic turbulence in a stably stratified atmosphere approximated with a [...] Read more.

Macroscale turbulence in the atmosphere is observed to be self-organized into large-scale structures such as zonal jets and robust waves and vortices. A simple model containing the relevant dynamics of turbulence self-organization is quasi-geostrophic turbulence in a stably stratified atmosphere approximated with a single-layer fluid on a beta-plane. Numerical simulations of this model have shown the dominance of Rossby waves, zonal jets and robust vortices in different regions of the parameter space. In this work, we perform numerical integrations of this model and focus on the regime in which robust large-scale vortices dominate the flow. The goal is to identify the Lagrangian coherent vortices that trap the same air masses in their core throughout their life cycle and to obtain their characteristics. The vortices are identified using an objective algorithm based on the Lagrangian-averaged vorticity deviation calculated using the advection of Lagrangian particles by the flow. Long-lived vortices with scales comparable to the deformation scale are found with a symmetry between cyclones and anti-cyclones as expected from the simplified dynamics of the model. The scale as well as the life span of the vortices are also found to increase alongside an increase in the strength of turbulence. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1468 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The HEAT-ALARM Project: Development of a Heat–Health Warning System in Greece

by Christos Giannaros, Ilias Agathangelidis, Elissavet Galanaki, Constantinos Cartalis, Vassiliki Kotroni, Konstantinos Lagouvardos and Andreas Matzarakis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026088 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1250

Abstract

Europe has been experiencing an increasing number of sweltering heat waves in recent years. This run of hot extremes induces a significant impact on the human environment, especially in terms of excess mortality, highlighting the urgent need for improved heat–health action planning. This [...] Read more.

Europe has been experiencing an increasing number of sweltering heat waves in recent years. This run of hot extremes induces a significant impact on the human environment, especially in terms of excess mortality, highlighting the urgent need for improved heat–health action planning. This is particularly true in countries situated in the eastern Mediterranean, which is considered a climate change hot spot. To increase preparedness and response to overheating risks, heat–health warning systems (HHWSs) are of vital importance. In this direction, the principal aim of the HEAT-ALARM research project is to provide a novel scientific and technological framework for the development of efficient HHWSs, employing Greece as a testbed. Going beyond the simple notion that outdoor meteorological conditions alone can adequately describe the heat–health nexus, a sophisticated human-biometeorological index, the modified physiologically equivalent temperature (mPET), is used. Advanced statistical models and tools are employed in order to establish a clear link between mPET and excess mortality at regional-unit administrative level. Moreover, urban climate factors produced by combining remote sensing and geographical information system techniques are incorporated into the HHWS via a state-of-the-art numerical weather prediction model. The latter includes a scheme that combines the parameterization and modeling of building effects and energy, respectively, in order to account for the urban indoor thermal conditions and the intra-urban differential heat exposure within the five highest populated cities of Greece (Athens, Thessaloniki, Patras, Heraklion and Larissa). Further, the human body’s acclimatization ability is considered, as well as the physiological characteristics of different vulnerable groups of people, including the elderly, women and outdoor workers. The current paper describes the scientific background of HEAT-ALARM and provides preliminary results associated with the project’s realization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 452 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Simulations of Sky Radiances in Red and Blue Channels at Various Aerosol Conditions Using Radiative Transfer Modeling

by Christos-Panagiotis Giannaklis, Stavros-Andreas Logothetis, Vasileios Salamalikis, Panayiotis Tzoumanikas, Konstantinos Katsidimas and Andreas Kazantzidis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026089 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 561

Abstract

We conducted a theoretical analysis of the relationship between red-to-blue (RBR) color intensities and aerosol optical properties. RBR values are obtained by radiative transfer simulations of diffuse sky radiances. Changes in atmospheric aerosol concentration (parametrized by aerosol optical depth, AOD), particle’s size distribution [...] Read more.

We conducted a theoretical analysis of the relationship between red-to-blue (RBR) color intensities and aerosol optical properties. RBR values are obtained by radiative transfer simulations of diffuse sky radiances. Changes in atmospheric aerosol concentration (parametrized by aerosol optical depth, AOD), particle’s size distribution (parametrized by Ångström exponent, AE) and aerosols’ scattering (parametrized by single scattering albedo—SSA) lead to variability in sky radiances and, thus, affect the RBR ratio. RBR is highly sensitive to AOD as high aerosol load in the atmosphere causes high RBR. AE seems to strongly affect the RBR, while SSA effect the RBR, but not to such a great extent. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 2126 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The High-Resolution Numerical Weather Prediction System of the Agroray Project

by Ioannis Pytharoulis, Stergios Kartsios, Vassilios Kostopoulos, Christos Spyrou, Ioannis Tegoulias, Dimitrios Bampzelis and Prodromos Zanis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026090 - 28 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 770

Abstract

The Agroray project was aimed at the development of a high-resolution numerical weather prediction system that will allow farmers to optimize their activities and protect their products from adverse weather events. The system is based on the Weather Research and Forecasting model and [...] Read more.

The Agroray project was aimed at the development of a high-resolution numerical weather prediction system that will allow farmers to optimize their activities and protect their products from adverse weather events. The system is based on the Weather Research and Forecasting model and focuses on Central Macedonia with a horizontal grid spacing of 1 km. The aim of this article is to describe the model configuration and validate its performance during selected frost and intense precipitation events. The evaluation against station measurements and radar precipitation showed that the optimum model setup includes Corine land use and enhanced vertical resolution near the surface. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 4389 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Development and Validation of an Enhanced Aerosol Product for Aeolus (L2A+)

by Konstantinos Rizos, Antonis Gkikas, Emmanouil Proestakis, Thanasis Georgiou, Vassilis Amiridis, Eleni Marinou, David Donovan, Nikos Benas, Martin Stengel, Christian Retscher, Holger Baars and Athena Augusta Floutsi

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026091 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 840

Abstract

The missing cross-channel of the lidar system aboard Aeolus (Atmospheric Laser Doppler Instrument; ALADIN) makes it impossible to obtain realistic optical products when the depolarizing atmospheric layers are probed (non-spherical particles). Additionally, it cannot provide retrievals separately for aerosol and cloud targets. To [...] Read more.

The missing cross-channel of the lidar system aboard Aeolus (Atmospheric Laser Doppler Instrument; ALADIN) makes it impossible to obtain realistic optical products when the depolarizing atmospheric layers are probed (non-spherical particles). Additionally, it cannot provide retrievals separately for aerosol and cloud targets. To overcome these inherent deficiencies, this study aims to deliver an enhanced Aeolus aerosol product (focusing on dust), which will be utilized on aerosol data assimilation schemes coupled with dust transport models to improve Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP). For the derivation of the improved aerosol product, a series of processing steps were designed, involving the use of spaceborne retrievals/products from multi-sensors in conjunction with reanalysis numerical outputs and reference ground-based measurements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 8165 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

An Improved Indicator for Causal Interaction in Non-Linear Systems

by Nikolaos Kollas, Sandra Gewehr, Spiros Mourelatos and Ioannis Kioutsioukis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026092 - 28 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 620

Abstract

Utilizing an extension of Pearson’s correlation in the case of random vectors, we improve the empirical dynamic modeling causal analysis of non-linear systems. To prove the effectiveness of the use of such an extension we analyze two real-world examples, the paramecium-didinium protozoan system [...] Read more.

Utilizing an extension of Pearson’s correlation in the case of random vectors, we improve the empirical dynamic modeling causal analysis of non-linear systems. To prove the effectiveness of the use of such an extension we analyze two real-world examples, the paramecium-didinium protozoan system and the influence of environmental variables on mosquito abundance in northern Greece. In both examples it is shown that the causal analysis based on the extended metric outperforms the usual method of measuring the correlation between observed and predicted values of a single vector component. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 1296 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Early Warning Impact of Temperature and Rainfall Anomalies onto West Nile Virus Human Cases

by Anastasia Angelou, Sandra Gewehr, Spiros Mourelatos and Ioannis Kioutsioukis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026093 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 621

Abstract

West Nile Virus (WNV) is transmitted among amplifying hosts and transferred through the bites of mosquitoes; humans and other mammals may become infected. The overwintering of infected mosquitoes is important for next season’s circulation of the virus. In this study, we combined the [...] Read more.

West Nile Virus (WNV) is transmitted among amplifying hosts and transferred through the bites of mosquitoes; humans and other mammals may become infected. The overwintering of infected mosquitoes is important for next season’s circulation of the virus. In this study, we combined the available climatic and entomological data at the municipality level to identify the impact of the wintertime climatic anomalies on the survival ability of diapausing mosquitoes in Central Macedonia, a region with great epidemiological interest in Greece. The analysis indicated a strong dependence of the mosquito abundances with spring temperature and winter precipitation, depending on the land use type and the geomorphology of the municipalities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1473 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Top European Droughts since 1991

by Maria Olga Voudouri, Pavlina Liaskou, Errikos Michail Manios and Christina Anagnostopoulou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026094 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 651

Abstract

Severe and repeated droughts in Europe have significant impacts on agriculture, transport, energy and healthcare. During the summer of 2003, more than the two-thirds of Europe was under drought. The drought events of 2010 and 2018 were of a similar extent to 2003. [...] Read more.

Severe and repeated droughts in Europe have significant impacts on agriculture, transport, energy and healthcare. During the summer of 2003, more than the two-thirds of Europe was under drought. The drought events of 2010 and 2018 were of a similar extent to 2003. An unprecedented stress on water levels throughout the entire EU was created by the combination of severe drought and heat waves during August 2022—the worst drought event in 500 years according to according to the Commission’s Joint Research Centre. A raised awareness of drought characteristics is essential for better drought forecasting and monitoring in order to provide reliable adaptation strategies for drought hazard. In this study, the drought over six European stations for the last three decades using the standardized precipitation index (SPI) and the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) was analyzed. SPI reveals that there are no significant changes in dry and wet conditions, while SPEI shows a significant increase in the drought frequency during the last decades for Central Europe and the Mediterranean. The discrepancies between the two indices can be explained by the increasing temperature and evapotranspiration that are fundamental components of drought occurrence in Europe. The SPI12 index managed to identify the drought of August 2022 in many regions in Europe, but with less intensity than it was recorded. Conversely, SPEI12 was able to identify the intensity of the drought. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 2983 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Air Mass Trajectories regarding Hydro Meteorological Disasters in Greece Registered in the EM-DAT Database

by Evangelos Papakitsos, Dimitrios Ε. Alexakis and Anastasios Mavrakis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026095 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 638

Abstract

During the last few decades, there has been an increase in the number of natural disasters in Greece, triggering consequences and raising public awareness. This research highlights air masses trajectories during flash floods and meteorological disasters in Greece, registered in the Emergency Database [...] Read more.

During the last few decades, there has been an increase in the number of natural disasters in Greece, triggering consequences and raising public awareness. This research highlights air masses trajectories during flash floods and meteorological disasters in Greece, registered in the Emergency Database EM-DAT. Registered disasters on the EM-DAT platform offer a relevant information base for vulnerability assessment and rational decision-making in disaster situations. In Greece, the time series of registered disasters covered 117 years between 1904 and 2021, and 146 disasters were registered; 100 and 46 events were classified, respectively, as natural and technological disasters. The period 1980–2021 records a total of 83 out of 100 natural disasters. The categories of natural disasters included in the database do not vary, but there has been a striking increase in the number of meteorological and hydrological ones during the period 1980–2021. Meteorological disasters (a total of 17, out of which 15 were registered after 1980) and hydrological ones (23, all of them registered after 1980). Meteorological and hydrological disasters are associated with the large-scale circulation of air masses, which favors the occurrence of such phenomena. In order to identify their characteristics, back-trajectories analysis was used. The results indicate that flash floods occur when air masses are moving above warm sea waters, while for the other meteorological disasters, air masses moved from North Africa or North Europe/Atlantic areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1625 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Assessment of Present and Future Flood Hazards in Thasos Island, Greece

by Nikolaos Moisidis, Vasileios Pavlidis, Antonios Mouratidis, Marios Sapountzis and Eleni Katragkou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026096 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 699

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the response of the rational method in flood hazard assessment in Potamia watershed of Thasos island, with climate data from Regional Climate Models. The precipitation intensity–duration–frequency (IDF) curves used were calculated using available EURO-CORDEX 0.11 [...] Read more.

The aim of this study is to investigate the response of the rational method in flood hazard assessment in Potamia watershed of Thasos island, with climate data from Regional Climate Models. The precipitation intensity–duration–frequency (IDF) curves used were calculated using available EURO-CORDEX 0.11 regional climate model simulations, under the RCP8.5 scenario. The Corine Land Cover dataset was utilized for the determination of the runoff coefficient of the watershed and geomorphological and hydrographic characteristics are calculated using a Geographic Information System software. A comparison against actual flood events of the period 1991–2019, as mapped with satellite Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery, is also carried out. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1487 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Artificial Neural Network Models for the Estimation of Air Temperature Cooling and Warming Patterns Inside Urban Clusters: The Case of Courtyards in Athens, Greece

by Eleni Thoma, Konstantinos Moustris, Areti Tseliou, George Papadopoulos and Ioannis Tsiros

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026097 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 574

Abstract

In the present study, the microclimatic conditions of two courtyards in the city of Athens are evaluated based on filed monitoring data and data predicted by artificial neural network models (ANNs). The study focuses on the development and application of ANNs in order [...] Read more.

In the present study, the microclimatic conditions of two courtyards in the city of Athens are evaluated based on filed monitoring data and data predicted by artificial neural network models (ANNs). The study focuses on the development and application of ANNs in order to estimate air temperature and relative humidity values in complex urban forms such as courtyards from a standard meteorological station, using air temperature and relative humidity as the only inputs. The results are then evaluated to identify the prognostic ability of the developed ANNs models, showing a remarkable predictive ability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 3340 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Quality of the Atmospheric Environment during Periods of Confinement Due to COVID-19 in the Attica Basin

by Ilias Jbeily and Konstantinos Moustris

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026098 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 641

Abstract

Based on ground-based measurements, the impact on air pollution over the Greater Athens Area (GAA) due to the two public lockdown periods (first lockdown period: 23 March 2020 until 3 May 2020; second lockdown period: 7 November 2020 until 2 May 2021) in [...] Read more.

Based on ground-based measurements, the impact on air pollution over the Greater Athens Area (GAA) due to the two public lockdown periods (first lockdown period: 23 March 2020 until 3 May 2020; second lockdown period: 7 November 2020 until 2 May 2021) in the GAA implemented to stop the spread of the COVID-19 is analyzed. The findings demonstrated that vehicular traffic is the main culprit of air pollution in the GAA, while secondary factors for the air pollution over the GAA are considered heating systems and the weather, while the ‘ozone paradox’ was noticed, too. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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11 pages, 6605 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Aoos/Vjosa: Protection of the River from the Future Impacts of Climate Change and Anthropogenic Activities

by Panagiotis Vretos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026099 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 852

Abstract

This paper investigates the potential impacts of climate change and anthropogenic activities on the transboundary river of Aoos/Vjosa, flowing through Greece and Albania, and proposes strategies for its protection. The paper analyzes the current state of the river and its ecosystems, identifies the [...] Read more.

This paper investigates the potential impacts of climate change and anthropogenic activities on the transboundary river of Aoos/Vjosa, flowing through Greece and Albania, and proposes strategies for its protection. The paper analyzes the current state of the river and its ecosystems, identifies the key drivers of change, and examines the potential impacts of future climate scenarios and human activities. Using climate data and GIS mapping, the study highlights the importance of sustainable development and cross-border cooperation to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of the river and its resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1544 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Heating and Cooling Energy Consumption Estimation in a Typical House in the Greater Thessaloniki Area, Applying Cooling and Heating Degree Days Method

by Vassilis Kotakis and Konstantinos Moustris

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026100 - 29 Aug 2023

Viewed by 788

Abstract

In this work, data from ten (10) meteorological stations in various areas of Thessaloniki, Greece were used in order the cooling and heating degree days for each station to be calculated. The specific data were applied to a detached house for each of [...] Read more.

In this work, data from ten (10) meteorological stations in various areas of Thessaloniki, Greece were used in order the cooling and heating degree days for each station to be calculated. The specific data were applied to a detached house for each of the ten areas considered. Furthermore, an analysis of the thermal insulation adequacy of the single family house that has been selected with the necessary methodology and the necessary sketches was conducted in order to have the illustration of the building. The study was divided into two cases, where the first refers to a typical thermal insulation that characterizes a building of the territory of Greece, and the second case where the residence has undergone a radical renovation of its thermal insulation. Results show that three different climatic zones appear in the same region instead of one. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 434 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Assessing the Carbon Footprint of Teleworking: A Case Study of Two Research Projects before and after the COVID-19 Pandemic

by Sofia Papadogiannaki, Natalia Liora, Daphne Parliari, Stavros Cheristanidis, Anastasia Poupkou and Dimitrios Melas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026101 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 719

Abstract

The objective of this study is to assess the carbon footprint (CF) of electricity use and transportation, with a focus on teleworking, through the implementation of two research projects that were initiated before and completed after the COVID-19 pandemic. The study applies an [...] Read more.

The objective of this study is to assess the carbon footprint (CF) of electricity use and transportation, with a focus on teleworking, through the implementation of two research projects that were initiated before and completed after the COVID-19 pandemic. The study applies an integrated methodology based on the GHG Protocol guidance and DEFRA emission factors to investigate the CF of the projects, both during the pre-pandemic and teleworking period, as well as during the pandemic period with 50% teleworking. The results indicate that telecommuting contributed to a reduction in CO₂ emissions of 49–55%. Furthermore, a 20% reduction in car usage for commuting to and from work resulted in reductions of approximately 30% in transportation. These findings suggest that implementing such measures post-COVID-19 could have a significant impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1798 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

An Investigation of the Dynamics Leading to the Emergence of Jets and Rossby Waves from a Background of Homogeneous Turbulence in a Baroclinic Atmosphere

by Evangelos I. Stasinos and Nikolaos A. Bakas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026102 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 544

Abstract

Turbulence is a dominant feature of atmospheric motions. Despite its chaotic nature, it is observed to create and maintain coherent structures such as zonal jets and large-scale waves in the atmosphere. Previous studies on the self-organization of turbulence in a baroclinic two-layered fluid [...] Read more.

Turbulence is a dominant feature of atmospheric motions. Despite its chaotic nature, it is observed to create and maintain coherent structures such as zonal jets and large-scale waves in the atmosphere. Previous studies on the self-organization of turbulence in a baroclinic two-layered fluid have shown that large-scale coherent structures emerge out of a homogeneous turbulent field through a collective type of instability with a preference for barotropic flows. That is, the barotropic coherent structures reorganize the turbulence in such a way as to reinforce themselves through a positive feedback and emerge in the flow. In this work, a statistical framework (S3T) is utilized in order to study the vorticity and thermal flux feedbacks underlying this instability. It is found that the feedbacks produced by the organization of incoherent barotropic and baroclinic eddies by the coherent emergent structures differ. For large stratification, the feedback that results from the organization of barotropic eddies by baroclinic coherent structures is negative and completely cancels out the positive feedback produced by the organization of the baroclinic eddies. On the contrary, the feedback resulting from the organization of the barotropic and the baroclinic turbulent eddies by the barotropic coherent structures do not cancel each other for most scales and lead to the emergence of these structures in the flow. The spatial features of the emerging coherent structures depend on the value of the non-dimensional planetary vorticity gradient. For small values of the gradient, the maximum value of the feedback is found for zonal jets, while for large values of the gradient, the maximum value of the feedback is found for Rossby waves. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 922 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Towards a Machine Learning Snowfall Retrieval Algorithm for GPM-IMERG

by Ioannis Dravilas, Stavros Dafis, Georgios Kyros, Konstantinos Lagouvardos and Manolis Koubarakis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026103 - 28 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1938

Abstract

Remote sensing of snowfall has been proved to be a great challenge since the start of the satellite era. Several techniques have been applied to satellite data to estimate the fraction of frozen precipitation that reaches the surface. This study aims at investigating [...] Read more.

Remote sensing of snowfall has been proved to be a great challenge since the start of the satellite era. Several techniques have been applied to satellite data to estimate the fraction of frozen precipitation that reaches the surface. This study aims at investigating the efficacy of machine learning (ML), and especially deep learning (DL), in estimating the precipitation phase of the Integrated Multi-satellitE Retrievals for the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM-IMERG). To achieve this, a training phase with hourly high-resolution numerical model outputs and in situ data was chosen for the period of late-2020 and 2021. Preliminary results show that ML models can estimate the precipitation phase with relatively high accuracy based on several case studies. The findings suggest that ML models offer a promising approach for advancing the nowcasting of snowfall and building a long-term archive dataset of IMERG-based snowfall using conventional real-time data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 891 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluation of ERA5 and ERA5-Land Reanalysis Precipitation Data with Rain Gauge Observations in Greece

by Vasileios Alexandridis, Stefanos Stefanidis and Stavros Dafis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026104 - 28 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1212

Abstract

Precipitation is a key component of the hydrological cycle and directly affects water availability and hydrometeorological hazards. The objective of this study is to evaluate the performance of two reanalysis precipitation datasets, ERA5 and ERA5-land, in reproducing precipitation accumulations over Greece. These data [...] Read more.

Precipitation is a key component of the hydrological cycle and directly affects water availability and hydrometeorological hazards. The objective of this study is to evaluate the performance of two reanalysis precipitation datasets, ERA5 and ERA5-land, in reproducing precipitation accumulations over Greece. These data are compared against rainfall measurements provided by the dense network of surface-automated weather stations operated by the National Observatory of Athens. The comparisons are performed over a 10-year period (January 2010 to December 2020) at multiple temporal and spatial scales. Several statistical metrics are used to assess the performance of the reanalysis precipitation against rain gauge observations. The suitability of gridded products is tested by capturing the temporal and spatial variability in precipitation using accuracy metrics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 2468 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluation of the Performance Gains in Short-Term Water Consumption Forecasting by Feature Engineering via a Fuzzy Clustering Algorithm in the Context of Data Scarcity

by Georgios Tzanes, Christiana Papapostolou, Miltiadis Gymnopoulos, John Kaldellis and Anastasios Stamou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026105 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 511

Abstract

Accurate short-term water consumption forecasting is a crucial function of modern water supply systems, which, in turn, play a crucial role in the sustainable management of water resources, particularly in regions with limited access to water supplies. This study presents an evaluation of [...] Read more.

Accurate short-term water consumption forecasting is a crucial function of modern water supply systems, which, in turn, play a crucial role in the sustainable management of water resources, particularly in regions with limited access to water supplies. This study presents an evaluation of the performance gains in short-term water consumption forecasting by the exploitation of a fuzzy clustering algorithm to engineer new features corresponding to water consumption clusters. The evaluation takes place under data scarcity, meaning both a small dataset and only in situ water consumption measurements. To evaluate the gains, data registered to consumers on the remote island of Tilos are processed to produce two datasets which differ in terms of the addition of clusters. The datasets are consumed by deep neural networks to produce hour-ahead predictions. The inclusion of the clusters in the dataset results in a decreased mean absolute error and root-mean-square error, reduced by 29% and 17% on average, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 3588 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Impact of Aerosol Optical Properties, Precipitable Water, and Solar Geometry on Sky Radiances Using Radiative Transfer Modeling

by Christos-Panagiotis Giannaklis, Stavros-Andreas Logothetis, Vasileios Salamalikis, Panayiotis Tzoumanikas and Andreas Kazantzidis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026106 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 583

Abstract

Radiative transfer modeling is used to investigate the effect of aerosol optical properties and water vapor on cloud-free sky radiances at various atmospheric conditions. Simulations are generated by changing the most critical aerosol optical properties, namely aerosol optical depth, Ångström exponent, the single-scattering [...] Read more.

Radiative transfer modeling is used to investigate the effect of aerosol optical properties and water vapor on cloud-free sky radiances at various atmospheric conditions. Simulations are generated by changing the most critical aerosol optical properties, namely aerosol optical depth, Ångström exponent, the single-scattering albedo, the precipitable water, and the solar zenith angle (SZA) in three different spectral ranges: ultraviolet A, visible, and near-infrared. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1849 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Influence of Ozone Concentrations on Public Health over the Greater Athens Area, Greece

by Kleopatra Ntourou, Kyriaki-Maria Fameli, Konstantinos Moustris, Antonios Augoustinos and Christos Tsitsis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 107; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026107 - 28 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 763

Abstract

Ozone is formed in the lower layers of the atmosphere mainly by gases emitted by anthropogenic activities in combination with solar radiation. In the present study, the short-term health impacts of ozone (O₃) on people living in the Greater Athens Area [...] Read more.

Ozone is formed in the lower layers of the atmosphere mainly by gases emitted by anthropogenic activities in combination with solar radiation. In the present study, the short-term health impacts of ozone (O₃) on people living in the Greater Athens Area in Greece are analyzed for the period 2001–2018 by estimating the cardiorespiratory deaths with the AirQ+ model. Ozone measurements (8-h mean values) for two areas with different characteristics (Thrakomakedones and Athinas) were used provided by the National Air Pollution Monitoring Network. Data processing showed that environmental conditions and geographical characteristics influence O₃ variation and the risk of cardiorespiratory deaths. The statistical analysis of O₃ measurements revealed that at the southwestern suburb of Thrakomakedones the mean annual concentrations range from 74 to 96 μgr/m³, much higher than in the Athens center (40–56 μgr/m³, station: Athinas). Τhe O₃ concentration threshold was exceeded in Thrakomakedones approximately 90 times per year, while in the Athinas monitoring station, it was exceeded only 25 times. According to the AirQ+ software package, the percentage of deaths due to O₃ exposure ranges from 6% in Thrakomakedones to 7.5% in the Athinas station. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 2646 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

An Early Warning System to Predict Rainfall Event in Attica, Greece: The Case Study of 30 September 2018

by Aikaterini Pappa, Christos Spyrou, John Kalogiros, Maria Tombrou, George Varlas and Petros Katsafados

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 108; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026108 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 685

Abstract

A forward advection scheme is incorporated in an advanced data assimilation model to provide very short-term predictions. The Local Analysis and Prediction System (LAPS) is implemented in the nowcasting mode in a case study of extreme precipitation event over Attica, Greece. The LAPS [...] Read more.

A forward advection scheme is incorporated in an advanced data assimilation model to provide very short-term predictions. The Local Analysis and Prediction System (LAPS) is implemented in the nowcasting mode in a case study of extreme precipitation event over Attica, Greece. The LAPS assimilated remote sensing data from satellite retrievals and XPOL radar precipitation measurements to produce objective analyses alongside their nowcasts in a forecast window up to 3 h. The results indicate that the assimilation of remote sensing data can increase the short-term precipitation predictability, with varying performance depending on the type and the combination of the assimilated remote sensing data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 5362 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Lightning Potential Forecast Evaluation and Its Correlation with Thermodynamic Indices

by Flora Gofa, Dimitra Boucouvala, Ioannis Samos and Petroula Louka

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026109 - 28 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1078

Abstract

Lightning potential index (LPI) is a measure of the potential for charge generation and separation that leads to lightning flashes in convective thunderstorms and can be forecasted from NWP models. While the connection between cloud microphysics and lightning seems apparent, the common indices [...] Read more.

Lightning potential index (LPI) is a measure of the potential for charge generation and separation that leads to lightning flashes in convective thunderstorms and can be forecasted from NWP models. While the connection between cloud microphysics and lightning seems apparent, the common indices used for forecasting thunderstorms and the potential for lightning usually rely on stability and thermodynamic indices. Herein, an effort is made to correlate LPI high-resolution forecasts with observed lightning from local networks. In this way, the usefulness of the LPI for predicting lightning for the Greek territory and its significance as a tool for improving the weather forecasting of convective storms and heavy rainfall are demonstrated. In addition, a statistical evaluation of precipitation and lightning forecasts with novel spatial methods on selected intense precipitation events is performed by comparing them with gridded observation datasets, and the correlation of the results is determined. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 3282 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

An Ensemble Forecasting Alternative Based on Stochastic Parameter Perturbation (SPP) on Potential Vorticity Anomalies through the Identification of Weather Features as Coherent Objects

by Platon Patlakas, Diego S. Carrió and Emmanouil Flaounas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026110 - 29 Aug 2023

Viewed by 571

Abstract

The Pacific Ocean witnesses frequent cyclonic activity. The destructive impact of these storms, including strong winds, heavy rain, and storm surge, causes flooding, landslides, and extensive damage. Understanding cyclone genesis and evolution is crucial for accurate forecasts and minimizing harm. Towards this direction, [...] Read more.

The Pacific Ocean witnesses frequent cyclonic activity. The destructive impact of these storms, including strong winds, heavy rain, and storm surge, causes flooding, landslides, and extensive damage. Understanding cyclone genesis and evolution is crucial for accurate forecasts and minimizing harm. Towards this direction, an alternative ensemble forecasting approach based on a stochastic parameter perturbation (SPP) scheme, applied in potential vorticity (PV) anomalies, was developed. Testing it on Typhoon Usagi demonstrated its effectiveness in introducing uncertainties to storm tracks and cyclone development. These findings highlight the potential of stochastic methods in regional forecasting systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 2019 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Validating the Copernicus European Regional Reanalysis (CERRA) Dataset for Human-Biometeorological Applications

by Elissavet Galanaki, Christos Giannaros, Ilias Agathangelidis, Constantinos Cartalis, Vassiliki Kotroni, Konstantinos Lagouvardos and Andreas Matzarakis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026111 - 28 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1140

Abstract

In recent years, a considerable body of research has demonstrated the suitability of global and regional reanalysis data for human-biometeorological applications. These applications include the assessment of the outdoor thermal environment and the investigation of its relation to human health, especially in areas [...] Read more.

In recent years, a considerable body of research has demonstrated the suitability of global and regional reanalysis data for human-biometeorological applications. These applications include the assessment of the outdoor thermal environment and the investigation of its relation to human health, especially in areas where the spatial coverage of surface observational networks is sparse. Here, we present the first comprehensive evaluation of the most recent pan-European regional reanalysis, namely the Copernicus European Regional Reanalysis (CERRA) dataset at 5.5 km spatial resolution, in terms of simulating the observed human bioclimate, as expressed by the modified physiologically equivalent temperature (mPET) that is computed through the RayMan Pro model, and its meteorological drivers. The validation was performed over Greece using up to 11 years of records of 2 m air temperature and relative humidity, 10 m wind speed and global solar radiation derived from 35 sites of the nationwide network of surface weather stations operated by the METEO Unit at the National Observatory of Athens. The ERA5-Land dataset at ~9 km spatial resolution, which represents the current state-of-the-art reanalysis, was also compared against the same observations. Our findings show that the CERRA dataset performs significantly better compared to the ERA5-Land reanalysis with respect to the replication of the examined meteorological variables and mPET. The added value of the CERRA data is particularly evident during the warm period of the year and in regions that are characterized by complex topography and/or proximity to the coastline. Combining the CERRA dataset with population and mortality data, we further showcase its applicability for human-biometeorological and heat–health studies at a local scale, using the regional unit of Rethymno (Crete) as a pilot area for the analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 1786 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Microplastics in Yliki Lake, Greece: An Explorative Study

by Olga Cavoura, Evagellia Mavrou and Ioanna Damikouka

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026112 - 29 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 853

Abstract

Microplastics can enter waters from surface run-off and atmospheric deposition. An exploratory study was undertaken to assess microplastic pollution in the natural lake of Yliki, an auxiliary drinking water reservoir supplying the network of Athens, Greece. Samples taken over the ~25 km² [...] Read more.

Microplastics can enter waters from surface run-off and atmospheric deposition. An exploratory study was undertaken to assess microplastic pollution in the natural lake of Yliki, an auxiliary drinking water reservoir supplying the network of Athens, Greece. Samples taken over the ~25 km² area of the lake revealed the presence of fragments and fibers at three out of ten locations, possibly from agriculture in the surrounding area or fishing in the lake. The findings highlight the ubiquitous nature of plastics and the need for regulated assessment of water supplies for environmental and human health protection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 3767 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Climate Benefits from Methane Mitigation

by Sofia Eirini Paschou, Alkiviadis Kalisoras and Prodromos Zanis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026113 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 660

Abstract

Methane is a greenhouse gas with a lifespan of about a decade, and its presence in the atmosphere affects the Earth’s temperature and the climate system. Methane is included in short-lived climate forcers (SLCFs) or near-term climate forcers (NTCFs), whose atmospheric composition changes [...] Read more.

Methane is a greenhouse gas with a lifespan of about a decade, and its presence in the atmosphere affects the Earth’s temperature and the climate system. Methane is included in short-lived climate forcers (SLCFs) or near-term climate forcers (NTCFs), whose atmospheric composition changes have a near-term effect on climate, predominantly in the first two decades after their emission or formation. In this study, the climate benefits of methane mitigation on global air temperature distribution are examined for the near future (2031–2050). The analysis is based on model simulations conducted by the Earth System Model GFDL-ESM4 for the future scenario SSP3-7.0 with additional air quality mitigation measures either in non-methane NTCFs (aerosol and ozone precursors) or in all NTCFs (including methane). It is shown that additional methane mitigation would potentially further contribute to offsetting the warming from reduced aerosols associated mainly with SO₂ reductions that would accompany decarbonization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 2959 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Lightning-Caused Wildfires: The Case of Mount Mainalo, Arcadia, Greece

by Miltiadis Athanasiou, Panagiotis Nastos, Ioannis Kouretas and Athanasios Karadimitris

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 114; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026114 - 29 Aug 2023

Viewed by 922

Abstract

This paper concerns eighty (80) lightning-ignited wildfires on Mount Mainalo, Greece, during the period from 1998 to 2022. Descriptive statistics of the dataset, frequency distribution histograms, and maps were used to describe the number of fires per year, the burned area per fire, [...] Read more.

This paper concerns eighty (80) lightning-ignited wildfires on Mount Mainalo, Greece, during the period from 1998 to 2022. Descriptive statistics of the dataset, frequency distribution histograms, and maps were used to describe the number of fires per year, the burned area per fire, the total burned area per year, the elevation of lightning-caused fire occurrences, the wildfire detection time, and the holdover time (the phase between the ignition and fire detection). The analysis shows an increased frequency of lightning-caused wildfires in August and July. Most of the fires took place in the southern part of the mountain and were detected in the afternoon hours. These preliminary findings and conclusions provide a comprehensive understanding of the past regime of natural fire on Mount Mainalo, and they can support improving wildfire prevention and management policies in the region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 268 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Radon Assessment: An Overview of Concentration Variability and Synergies with Other Health Risk Factors in Indoor Air

by Evangelos Batris, Dimitrios Nikolopoulos, Ioannis Valais and Konstantinos Moustris

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 115; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026115 - 28 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1122

Abstract

Indoor Radon is the second cause of deadly lung cancer and is suspected of inflicting further health risks and synergies with other air pollutants. Radon mapping is based on long-term average concentrations, but the spatiotemporal concentration variability can be very high, delivering higher [...] Read more.

Indoor Radon is the second cause of deadly lung cancer and is suspected of inflicting further health risks and synergies with other air pollutants. Radon mapping is based on long-term average concentrations, but the spatiotemporal concentration variability can be very high, delivering higher radiation doses than expected. Continuous monitoring, appropriate indices, and reliable models, aided by digital technologies may improve the assessment and management of indoor Radon risk, especially for vulnerable populations. Further epidemiological studies, research and modelling in dosimetry, new monitoring technologies and methods, and synergies with air quality research, are expected to contribute towards a unified strategy for Radon risk assessment, management, and perception. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

6 pages, 236 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Cave Ecosystem in the Research of New Antibiotic Discovery and Development

by Alexandra Mpakosi and Maria Mironidou-Tzouveleki

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026116 - 29 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1360

Abstract

The increasing resistance of micro-organisms to antibiotics is a serious problem of public health. Furthermore, during the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an additional increase in fungal infections from rare fungi, which burdened immunocompromised patients. Climate change, and the resulting high temperatures and humidity, [...] Read more.

The increasing resistance of micro-organisms to antibiotics is a serious problem of public health. Furthermore, during the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an additional increase in fungal infections from rare fungi, which burdened immunocompromised patients. Climate change, and the resulting high temperatures and humidity, is predicted to worsen this situation, as such conditions accelerate the emergence and spread of these “superbugs” and fungi. The need to produce new antimicrobial agents is therefore essential and imperative. Recent data support the idea that the pristine ecosystems of caves may become an important potential source of novel drugs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

6 pages, 1440 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Developing a System for Integrated Environmental Information in Urban Areas: An Estimation of the Impact of Thermal Stress on Health

by Dimitrios Melas, Daphne Parliari, Theo Economou, Christos Giannaros, Natalia Liora, Sophia Papadogiannaki, Serafeim Kontos, Stavros Cheristanidis, Donatella Occhiuto, Maria Agostina Frezzini, Jonilda Kushta, Theodoros Christoudias, Chrysanthos Savvides, Ioannis Christofides, Giampietro Casasanta, Stefania Argentini, Athina Progiou, George Papastergios and Apostolos Kelessis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 117; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026117 - 29 Aug 2023

Viewed by 924

Abstract

Poor air quality remains the largest environmental health risk in Europe, despite the EU policy efforts. Especially in cities, the synergistic interactions between the urban heat island and urban pollution result in premature mortality, associated with cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Mediterranean urban areas [...] Read more.

Poor air quality remains the largest environmental health risk in Europe, despite the EU policy efforts. Especially in cities, the synergistic interactions between the urban heat island and urban pollution result in premature mortality, associated with cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. Mediterranean urban areas are particularly susceptible under the consideration that the intensity, frequency, and duration of heat waves will increase due to climate change. The LIFE SIRIUS project designates that air quality management needs to go beyond traditional approaches in order to consider synergistic effects. This paper assesses the impact of temperature on daily mortality from 2004 to 2019 in the Republic of Cyprus with the use of a Generalized Additive Model (GAM). The association between mean daily temperature and mortality is nonlinear, implying that a prompt rise in deaths occurs when temperatures are high, while for colder temperatures, the effect is delayed. We report an inverted J-shaped relationship between mean temperature and mortality, with the most prominent effects on human health documented at low temperatures. The population under study appears to be acclimatized to local conditions, as mortality increases after 10 days of exposure to the environmental risk. The results of this study will assist in the definition of city-specific thresholds above which health warnings for the protection of the local population will be issued, in the framework of LIFE SIRIUS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 558 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Environment and Public Health: Air Pollution and Chronic Diseases

by Pinelopi Petropoulou, Ioli Artopoulou, Ioannis Kalemikerakis and Ourania Govina

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026118 - 29 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3695

Abstract

Air pollution is a major environmental risk to human health and wellbeing, and a major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Particularly affected are the vulnerable populations of women, pregnant women, children, people with disabilities, and the elderly, who make up the majority [...] Read more.

Air pollution is a major environmental risk to human health and wellbeing, and a major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. Particularly affected are the vulnerable populations of women, pregnant women, children, people with disabilities, and the elderly, who make up the majority of the world’s poor. In this work, we present a series of pieces of evidence linking the main air pollutants to chronic diseases in adults and children. The WHO has concluded that air pollution affects children’s neurodevelopmental and cognitive abilities, and can cause chronic diseases, such as childhood asthma and cancer. Epidemiological studies have shown significant effects caused by PM 2.5 and PM 10 particles toward mortality from different types of cancer. Finally, household air pollution increases the risk for a wide range of adverse cardiorespiratory, pediatric, and maternal health outcomes, particularly in poorer low- and middle-income countries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1059 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

An Assessment of the Relative Importance of Factors Impacting Surface UV Radiation Based on Simulations of the 6th Phase of the Coupled Intercomparison Project

by Anthi Chatzopoulou, Kleareti Tourpali, Alkiviadis F. Bais, Peter Braesicke and Roland Ruhnke

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026119 - 29 Aug 2023

Viewed by 615

Abstract

Aerosols, ozone, surface reflectivity, and clouds are, among other factors, important for the modulation of UV radiation levels at the Earth’s surface. In this study, these variables were extracted from climate model integrations that contributed to CMIP6 and from MACC global reanalysis provided [...] Read more.

Aerosols, ozone, surface reflectivity, and clouds are, among other factors, important for the modulation of UV radiation levels at the Earth’s surface. In this study, these variables were extracted from climate model integrations that contributed to CMIP6 and from MACC global reanalysis provided by the CAMS. From the 1950s until the end of the 21st century and for various shared socioeconomic pathways considered by CMIP6, we conclude that total ozone will increase globally in 2100 by up to 11% under SSP5–8.5 relative to the 1950s, while under SSP1–2.6, ozone is not projected to recover to pre-ozone depletion levels. AOD at 550 nm shows reductions in 2090–2100 over the Northern Hemisphere of up to −0.38. Compared to CAMS, CMIP6 models show a general overestimation for total ozone of up to 2.5% in extra-polar regions for models with interactive chemistry. This implies systematically lower UV radiation from models based on these projections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 1530 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Investigation of Climate Change Impacts on the Building Materials of Archeological Monuments

by Iason Markantonis, Athanasios Sfetsos, Diamando Vlachogiannis, Ioannis Kioutsioukis, Anastasia Michalopoulou, Vassilis Kilikoglou and Ioannis Karatasios

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026120 - 29 Aug 2023

Viewed by 706

Abstract

Weather conditions affect the microclimate of architectural monuments. The alteration of microclimate conditions may create risks for monuments, accelerating their weathering process. For Greece, hosting numerous monuments, the identification of the risks that climate change possess is essential for planning mitigation actions. The [...] Read more.

Weather conditions affect the microclimate of architectural monuments. The alteration of microclimate conditions may create risks for monuments, accelerating their weathering process. For Greece, hosting numerous monuments, the identification of the risks that climate change possess is essential for planning mitigation actions. The main soluble salts that affect archaeological materials are halite and the system of thenardite/mirabilite. The thermodynamics of the salts’ equilibrium are affected by atmospheric conditions. We study the climatology of these conditions, adopting modeled data produced by high-resolution simulations. Possible climate change impacts are investigated, aiming at mapping monuments’ vulnerability in Greece. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 1682 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

How Has Aridity Changed at a Fir (Abies Borisii-Regis) Forest Site in Central Greece during the Past Six Decades?

by Stefanos Stefanidis, Aristoteles Tegos and Vasileios Alexandridis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026121 - 29 Aug 2023

Viewed by 696

Abstract

Aridity monitoring is critical in forestry as it may affect forest growth, species diversity, and treeline shift. A widely used approach to assess the status of and changes in aridity is the aridity index (AI), defined as the ratio of precipitation (P) to [...] Read more.

Aridity monitoring is critical in forestry as it may affect forest growth, species diversity, and treeline shift. A widely used approach to assess the status of and changes in aridity is the aridity index (AI), defined as the ratio of precipitation (P) to potential evapotranspiration (PET). This study investigates the temporal change in the aridity index (AI) at a fir forest site between two distinct climatic periods: 1961–1990 and 1991–2020. To that end, long-term time series of mean monthly air temperature and total monthly precipitation from a forest meteorological station (1180 m a.s.l.) were collected and processed. Furthermore, the PET was estimated using a parsimonious parametric model based on a simplification of the Penman–Monteith formula. The results indicated that AI values slightly changed between the two considered climatic periods, while the climate was classified as humid and remained unchanged. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 2829 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Evolution of the Seasonal Variation and the Summer Diurnal Variation of Primary and Secondary Photochemical Air Pollution in Athens

by P. Kalabokas, Th. Stavraka, J. Kapsomenakis, A. Poupkou and C. Zerefos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026122 - 29 Aug 2023

Viewed by 751

Abstract

The city of Athens has faced air pollution problems over the last few decades due to the high population density associated with an intense emission load constrained by the local topography causing poor ventilation. In addition, the high levels of solar irradiation, in [...] Read more.

The city of Athens has faced air pollution problems over the last few decades due to the high population density associated with an intense emission load constrained by the local topography causing poor ventilation. In addition, the high levels of solar irradiation, in combination with emissions of nitrogen oxides and hydrocarbons, have led to the formation of photochemical pollutants, especially ozone. In this study, the evolution of the seasonal variation of primary and secondary photochemical urban air pollution in Athens was examined for the 2001–2021 period. For this purpose, the monthly NO_x (NO+NO₂), ozone, and O_x (O₃+NO₂) averages for the Athens air pollution monitoring stations of Geoponiki, Liossia, Ag. Paraskevi, and Thrakomakedones in the selected periods of 2001–2004, 2010–2013, 2016–2019, and 2020–2021 were plotted. In addition, summer diurnal NO_x, ozone, and O_x variations were examined. There was a clear reduction in NO_x levels at all four examined stations, especially at the urban background site of Geoponiki, as well as at the most polluted peripheral site of Liossia, following a reduction in urban emissions, mainly from car traffic during the examined period. The ozone and O_x curves did not show the same patterns due to the complicated nature of local ozone photochemical production, in combination with the rural surface ozone background, which was particularly high over the area. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 4706 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Multiple Supercell Thunderstorms on 11 August 2021 Following an Extreme Heat Wave in Greece: An Unusual Event

by Maria Christodoulou, Michalis Sioutas and Ioannis Tegoulias

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026123 - 29 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1411

Abstract

Greece was hit by an extreme heat wave, with a significant impact on human health and natural ecosystems in the period between 28 July and 11 August 2021. After the end of this unusual warm period, a rare occasion of multiple supercell storms [...] Read more.

Greece was hit by an extreme heat wave, with a significant impact on human health and natural ecosystems in the period between 28 July and 11 August 2021. After the end of this unusual warm period, a rare occasion of multiple supercell storms was observed on 11 August 2021 in northern and central Greece. The synoptic conditions indicated embedded short waves in a northwesterly flow and significant thermal instability across the regions of interest was evident. In conjunction with the strong vertical wind, shear organized convection was released. At least six long-track supercells were documented and the onset, evolution and specific characteristics of them are presented. All supercells moved from NW toward SE, accompanied by large hail, intense rainfall and destructive wind gusts, producing widespread damage along their track. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1766 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Seasonal Changes on PM_2.5 Concentrations and Emissions at Urban Hotspots in the Greater Athens Area, Greece

by Kyriaki-Maria Fameli, Komninos Dionysis and Vasiliki Assimakopoulos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026124 - 29 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 685

Abstract

At highly populated areas, such as the Greater Athens Area in Greece, the air quality differs significantly from one municipality to another, being highly affected by the local anthropogenic sources (traffic, residential heating, navigation) and consequent emissions. Thus, the existence of a dense [...] Read more.

At highly populated areas, such as the Greater Athens Area in Greece, the air quality differs significantly from one municipality to another, being highly affected by the local anthropogenic sources (traffic, residential heating, navigation) and consequent emissions. Thus, the existence of a dense network of low-cost air quality sensors provides evidence of seasonal patterns on particulate concentrations within the urban zone. In the present study, hourly PM_2.5 concentrations recorded using low-cost sensors at six municipalities in the Greater Athens Area (Vrilissia, Psychiko, Peristeri, Rentis, Agia Varvara, Palaio Faliro) with different characteristics (population density, pollutant sources, surrounding land use) were collected for the year 2022. The highest mean seasonal values were recorded in the western and southern suburbs (Peristeri, Rentis and Palaio Faliro) during the cold period (winter of the year 2022). Mean concentrations decreased significantly in spring; the mean concentrations were 31.3 μg/m³ and 18.5 μg/m³ in Vrilissia in winter and spring, respectively (year: 2022). Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1241 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Influence of Meteorological Parameters on PM_2.5 Concentrations on the Aegean Islands

by Kyriaki-Maria Fameli, Anna-Maria Kotrikla, Panayiotis Kalkavouras and Amalia Polydoropoulou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026125 - 29 Aug 2023

Viewed by 720

Abstract

A network of low-cost sensors operates at six islands in the Aegean Sea (Lemnos, Lesvos, Chios, Samos, Syros and Rhodes) providing real-time PM_2.5 concentrations to the public. In the present study, the effect of the prevailing meteorological conditions on the local air [...] Read more.

A network of low-cost sensors operates at six islands in the Aegean Sea (Lemnos, Lesvos, Chios, Samos, Syros and Rhodes) providing real-time PM_2.5 concentrations to the public. In the present study, the effect of the prevailing meteorological conditions on the local air quality was examined. For this reason, data about wind direction, dry and wet temperature, wind speed and sunlight were provided by the Hellenic National Meteorological Service for the period from January to September 2022. The analysis of the hourly PM_2.5 concentrations revealed different air quality patterns on each island, as well as seasonal changes for the same islands (e.g., higher concentrations in Samos during the cold period). Temperature was found to contribute significantly to the PM_2.5 measurements since it affects the anthropogenic activities related to emissions. For instance, higher temperatures in winter result in limited residential heating needs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1425 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Waterspout Outbreak Environments and Forecasting in Greece

by Michalis V. Sioutas, Wade M. Szilagyi, Maria M. Christodoulou and Eleni A. Chatzi

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026126 - 29 Aug 2023

Viewed by 2613

Abstract

Waterspout outbreaks are very impressive phenomena defined as multiple waterspouts successively forming in a specific area. This study presents the twelve largest waterspout outbreak cases that have occurred in the last two decades (2000–May 2023) in Greece. Synoptic data indicated a closed low [...] Read more.

Waterspout outbreaks are very impressive phenomena defined as multiple waterspouts successively forming in a specific area. This study presents the twelve largest waterspout outbreak cases that have occurred in the last two decades (2000–May 2023) in Greece. Synoptic data indicated a closed low (CLOSED) pattern prevailed during waterspout outbreaks over the Aegean and Ionian Seas. A variety of convective parameters were examined, including most unstable CAPE (MUCAPE), mixed-layer lifting condensation level (MLLCL), low-layer shear (LLS) and 0–1 storm-relative helicity (SRH). The Szilagyi Waterspout Index (SWI) is applied successfully and is suggested for further consideration and application in waterspout operational forecasting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 2184 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Local Climate Pressure on Cultural Heritage Sites—The Case of the Ancient Greek Theatre of Dodoni, Epirus, Greece

by Marina Panagiota P. Nastou and Stelios C. Zerefos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026127 - 29 Aug 2023

Viewed by 575

Abstract

Climate change is an ongoing process with evident effects on local climates. Heritage management is vital for the protection of cultural heritage, with vulnerability assessment and mitigation-adaptation strategies. This research presents the pressure of local climate and the climate extremes on the ancient [...] Read more.

Climate change is an ongoing process with evident effects on local climates. Heritage management is vital for the protection of cultural heritage, with vulnerability assessment and mitigation-adaptation strategies. This research presents the pressure of local climate and the climate extremes on the ancient Greek theatre of Dodoni in North-Western Greece, which combines cultural, natural, tangible, and intangible heritage. The impact of local climate is analyzed by collecting climatological daily time series of ambient air temperature, humidity, and precipitation, acquired by the nearby meteorological station of Ioannina (Hellenic National Meteorological Service) for the period 1956–2022. This information is incorporated into heritage management for future protection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1279 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Climate Change Impacts on Indoor Cultural Heritage and Collections in Greece

by Efstathia Tringa and Konstantia Tolika

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026128 - 29 Aug 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1520

Abstract

The preservation of historical buildings, as well as museum exhibition facilities, is critical under the changing environmental conditions. Since the potential outdoor climate changes may affect the recommended environmental conditions within the museum microenvironment, there is an urgent need for further research into [...] Read more.

The preservation of historical buildings, as well as museum exhibition facilities, is critical under the changing environmental conditions. Since the potential outdoor climate changes may affect the recommended environmental conditions within the museum microenvironment, there is an urgent need for further research into the relationship between the outdoor and indoor climate and how future changes could affect it. This study investigated the relationship between the indoor and outdoor climate conditions in museums and historical buildings located in Greece. The main goal of this work was to assess the suitability of the indoor microclimate by applying the heritage microclimate risk (HMR) and the predicted risk of damage (PRD) indices. In order to achieve a detailed assessment of the present temperature and relative humidity (RH) outdoor conditions over the specific case studies, data from three different sources were incorporated in the study (observed, reanalysis, and model data). The model data were derived from the regional climate model RegCM4 with a fine spatial resolution of 10 × 10 km. The indoor environmental parameters were collected both from the museums and the historical buildings in the two case studies. In cases where indoor environmental data were not available, monitoring sensors were installed. The findings indicate that in cases where there is no control over climate conditions, the indoor climate is predominantly influenced by the outdoor climate. As a result, these spaces exhibit a heightened sensitivity to potential future temperature increases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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8 pages, 4742 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Microclimate Changes Due to the Operation of Energy Infrastructures

by Κonstantinos Kalkanis, Νikolaos M. Manousakis, Κonstantinos Pachigiannakis and Constantinos S. Psomopoulos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026129 - 29 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1041

Abstract

The changes in the local microclimate from the installations of renewable energy systems and thermal units for the production of electrical power, as well as the statistical analysis of the data recorded from various official data sources are presented in this paper. In [...] Read more.

The changes in the local microclimate from the installations of renewable energy systems and thermal units for the production of electrical power, as well as the statistical analysis of the data recorded from various official data sources are presented in this paper. In this context, bibliographic data were recorded, such as temperature and rainfall data in the vicinity of units for the production of electrical power from renewable energy systems and power plants. The data were collected from various databases and an assessment of the impact of different types of power plants on the local climate was conducted. The different types of energy sources are thoroughly categorized. Furthermore, climate data of the wider location of selected energy production plants were analyzed before, during and / or after the end of their operation. Finally, an analysis will be carried out and conclusions will be drawn regarding the climate change endured in the said locations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 995 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Vertically Resolved Direct Radiative Effects of Intense Mediterranean Dust Episodes during the Period 2005–2018

by Maria Gavrouzou, Nikos Hatzianastassiou, Marios Bruno Korras-Carraca, Michalis Stamatis, Christos J. Lolis, Christos Matsoukas, Nikos Mihalopoulos and Ilias Vardavas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026130 - 29 Aug 2023

Viewed by 686

Abstract

In the present study, the all-sky Dust Direct Radiative Effect (DDRE) is estimated during intense Dust Aerosol (DA) episodes that took place from 2005 to 2018 over the broader Mediterranean Basin (MB). DA episodes are identified using a satellite algorithm, which is based [...] Read more.

In the present study, the all-sky Dust Direct Radiative Effect (DDRE) is estimated during intense Dust Aerosol (DA) episodes that took place from 2005 to 2018 over the broader Mediterranean Basin (MB). DA episodes are identified using a satellite algorithm, which is based on aerosol optical properties. The DDREs are estimated using a vertically resolved version of the FORTH spectral radiative transfer model (RTM). The RTM ran on a 3-hourly temporal and 0.5° × 0.625° horizontal spatial resolution for each of the 162 identified DA episode days (DAEDs), initialized with 3D dust and total (all) aerosol optical properties, namely optical depth, single scattering albedo, and asymmetry parameter from the MERRA-2 reanalysis. Cloud data (cloud amount, optical depth, and top pressure) are taken from the ISCCP-H. The RTM computes the upwelling and downwelling solar fluxes at TOA, at the surface, and at 50 levels in the atmosphere. The runs were made with all aerosols, and all but DA. The DDREs were calculated by the difference between the two sets of output fluxes. According to the model results averaged over the 162 studied episodes, DA reduces the net surface solar radiation over the MB, causing a cooling effect as large as −77 W/m² (climatological mean value at 12:00 UTC) over areas with high dust optical depth. On the contrary, they increase the atmospheric absorbed solar radiation, resulting in considerable (up to 79 W/m²) atmospheric radiative heating. At TOA, either heating (up to 30 W/m² over desert areas) or cooling (as strong as −21 W/m² over oceanic areas) are found, depending on the significantly different underlying surface albedos. DDREs are even higher during single episodes, with a surface cooling effect as large as −200 W/m² and a corresponding atmospheric heating effect of up to +187 W/m². Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 520 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Mean Daily Temperature Estimations and the Impact on Climatological Applications

by Charalampos Kolyvas, Spyros Missiakoulis and Flora Gofa

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 131; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026131 - 29 Aug 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1931

Abstract

Climate variation in temperature describes the fluctuations that occur above or below the average temperature over time. This study focuses on the analysis of various approaches for calculating the average temperature to better capture and represent the true average temperature over the course [...] Read more.

Climate variation in temperature describes the fluctuations that occur above or below the average temperature over time. This study focuses on the analysis of various approaches for calculating the average temperature to better capture and represent the true average temperature over the course of a day. As the conventional approach often fails to integrate significant behaviors of temperature variations, nine mathematical formulas are employed with a different number of daily observations. Specifically, this study inserts the geometric and harmonic mean and their variations for the estimation of the average temperature. Furthermore, the application of the formulas to the time series of temperature recordings for three station locations in Greece is analyzed. For the evaluation of the results, six widely used statistical indices for quantifying errors are applied, and their relative effects are also discussed. Finally, as a practical application of the impact of the formula used for the averaging of daily temperature, the various approaches are introduced on the same observation dataset for the estimation of the heating degree-days, an index that can have significant climatological and economic implications over a region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1881 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Risk Assessment of Toxic Pollutant Dispersion after a Methane Pool Fire Accident in a Street Canyon

by Anargyros Palampigik, Konstantinos Vasilopoulos, Ioannis Lekakis and Ioannis Sarris

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 132; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026132 - 30 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 810

Abstract

A fire accident in an urban environment can result in injuries or death, as well as environmental and property damages. The ‘street canyon’, which is defined as an urban street with tall buildings on both sides, is an important geometric element covering an [...] Read more.

A fire accident in an urban environment can result in injuries or death, as well as environmental and property damages. The ‘street canyon’, which is defined as an urban street with tall buildings on both sides, is an important geometric element covering an urban area. The interaction of wind with the street canyon can create complicated flow patterns and areas of large pollutant concentrations. This study focuses on the airflow characteristics and pollutant dispersion following a pool fire accident involving methane in an urban street canyon. Large eddy simulations (LES) are performed using the FireFoam solver with the PISO algorithm for the pressure correction equation and a simplified one-step combustion model. Flow and fire characteristics, such as, flame height, heat transfer, combustion chemistry and pollutant dispersion are computed and used to define the toxic areas inside the street canyon and subsequently identify the various risk zones, based on temperature, vertical velocity and CO₂ mass fraction fields. This study shows that a methane pool fire is transformed into a jet fire, which is influenced by the wind velocity and the heat transfer rate between the wind and the pool fire. The temperatures inside the street canyon create very dangerous and fatal conditions for pedestrians and rescue crews, whereas on the roof of the buildings the range of temperatures encountered cannot be lethal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1416 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Retrieval of Aerosol Optical Properties via an All-Sky Imager and Machine Learning: Uncertainty in Direct Normal Irradiance Estimations

by Stavros-Andreas Logothetis, Christos-Panagiotis Giannaklis, Vasileios Salamalikis, Panagiotis Tzoumanikas, Panagiotis-Ioannis Raptis, Vassilis Amiridis, Kostas Eleftheratos and Andreas Kazantzidis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 133; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026133 - 30 Aug 2023

Viewed by 642

Abstract

Quality-assured aerosol optical properties (AOP) with high spatiotemporal resolution are vital for the accurate estimation of direct aerosol radiative forcing and solar irradiance under clear skies. In this study, the sky information from an all-sky imager (ASI) is used with machine learning (ML) [...] Read more.

Quality-assured aerosol optical properties (AOP) with high spatiotemporal resolution are vital for the accurate estimation of direct aerosol radiative forcing and solar irradiance under clear skies. In this study, the sky information from an all-sky imager (ASI) is used with machine learning (ML) synergy to estimate aerosol optical depth (AOD) and the Ångström Exponent (AE). The retrieved AODs (AE) revealed good accuracy, with a dispersion error lower than 0.07 (0.15). The retrieved ML AOPs are used to estimate the DNI by applying radiative transfer modeling. The estimated ML DNI calculations revealed adequate accuracy to reproduce reference measurements with relatively low uncertainties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 2308 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Use of Satellite-Based Indicators to Study the Role of Jet Stream Superposition on High-Impact Weather Events in the Mediterranean Region

by Apostolis Tsironis, Constantinos Cartalis and Helena Flocas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 134; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026134 - 31 Aug 2023

Viewed by 635

Abstract

The polar front jet and the subtropical jet, usually separated, are rarely superposed at the same latitude over the greater Mediterranean region, resulting in intense cyclogenesis. The objective of this study is to identify the superposition of the two jets over the Mediterranean [...] Read more.

The polar front jet and the subtropical jet, usually separated, are rarely superposed at the same latitude over the greater Mediterranean region, resulting in intense cyclogenesis. The objective of this study is to identify the superposition of the two jets over the Mediterranean on a climatological basis and the possible association with high-impact weather events with the aid of satellite-based indicators. The results show that, indeed, the satellite indicators help in better identifying the area of possible jet superposition. Furthermore, it was found that although jet stream superposition occurs very rarely, it is mostly associated with severe weather events in the surrounding areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 391 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Classification of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Meteorology: A Survey

by Christos Mourgelas, Evangelia Micha, Emmanouil Chatzistavrakis and Ioannis Voyiatzis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 135; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026135 - 31 Aug 2023

Viewed by 2759

Abstract

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are increasingly being used in meteorology research due to their ability to overcome challenges such as difficult access to hazardous locations and the need for high-resolution and real-time data. UAVs provide accurate and precise high-resolution data that allows scientists [...] Read more.

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are increasingly being used in meteorology research due to their ability to overcome challenges such as difficult access to hazardous locations and the need for high-resolution and real-time data. UAVs provide accurate and precise high-resolution data that allows scientists to study small-scale weather phenomena in unprecedented detail. This survey highlights the different types of UAVs used in meteorology, including fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and hybrid UAVs, as well as the various payload options available, such as sensors for temperature, humidity, pressure, wind, and precipitation. Overall choosing the appropriate UAV for meteorological applications relies on meeting specific mission requirements, including various factors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 938 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

PM_2.5 Retrieval Using Aerosol Optical Depth, Meteorological Variables, and Artificial Intelligence

by Stavros-Andreas Logothetis, Georgios Kosmopoulos, Vasileios Salamalikis and Andreas Kazantzidis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026136 - 31 Aug 2023

Viewed by 912

Abstract

Particulate matter (PM) is one of the major air pollutants that has adverse impacts on human health. The aim of this study is to present an alternative approach for retrieving fine PM (particles with an aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 μm, PM_2.5 [...] Read more.

Particulate matter (PM) is one of the major air pollutants that has adverse impacts on human health. The aim of this study is to present an alternative approach for retrieving fine PM (particles with an aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 μm, PM_2.5) using artificial intelligence. Ground-based instruments, including a hand-held Microtops II sun photometer (for aerosol optical depth), a PurpleAir sensor (for PM_2.5), and Rotronic sensors (for temperature and relative humidity), are used for the machine learning algorithm training. The retrieved PM_2.5 reveals an adequate performance with an error of 0.08 μg m⁻³ and a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.84. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 1691 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Correlation between Weather Conditions and Burnt Areas in 25 Years of Forest Firefighting by the Fire Brigade

by Gouvas Markos, Papadopoulos Aristotelis, Bolis Stefanos and Iliopoulos Nikolaos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026137 - 30 Aug 2023

Viewed by 706

Abstract

In this paper, research on the relationship between forest fires and meteorology is carried out using simple meteorological variables (temperature, wind, and precipitation) from a few well-selected Greek meteorological stations. The 5 years (1998, 2000, 2007, 2012, and 2021) which recorded burnt areas [...] Read more.

In this paper, research on the relationship between forest fires and meteorology is carried out using simple meteorological variables (temperature, wind, and precipitation) from a few well-selected Greek meteorological stations. The 5 years (1998, 2000, 2007, 2012, and 2021) which recorded burnt areas for more than the 25-year average (37,000 ha) had as a common characteristic, on the one hand, a much drier than usual two-month period (July–August) following a winter period with a shortage of rainfall, and on the other hand a number of days with very high temperatures higher than the average of the last 25 years. The latter implies that average temperatures in all three summer months were at least 1 °C above their normal value. In the years following, the burnt areas were below their average regardless of the precipitation and summer temperature patterns. However, when precipitation during the two-month period (July–August) was two or more times more than normal, fire seasons had, at most, one-third of the 25-year average of burned areas, regardless of the precipitation of the winter periods preceding and summer temperatures in those years. This is very important as already in the early days of each fire season it will be possible to make an estimation of its outcome and to prepare more appropriately when the accuracy of the long-term seasonal forecast of temperature and rainfall anomalies is improved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 2093 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Multi-Decadal Monitoring of Soil Erosion Rates in South Europe

by Stefanos Stefanidis, Giorgos Mallinis and Vasileios Alexandridis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 138; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026138 - 31 Aug 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 627

Abstract

Soil loss by water is a major form of land degradation with environmental and economic consequences. In particular, erosion rates are sensitive to both climate and land cover changes. The present study investigates the temporal changes in soil loss rate over South Europe [...] Read more.

Soil loss by water is a major form of land degradation with environmental and economic consequences. In particular, erosion rates are sensitive to both climate and land cover changes. The present study investigates the temporal changes in soil loss rate over South Europe during the 1980–2018 period. To that end, the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) was applied by integrating information from freely available geospatial datasets to conduct a multi-decadal assessment. In this frame, the temporal variability of the two dynamic RUSLE factors, namely rainfall erosivity (R) and cover management (C), was explored. Specifically, the rainfall erosivity values per decade were acquired from a newly developed dataset from the European Soil Data Center (ESDAC), coupling the Rainfall Erosivity Database at European Scale (REDES) and UERRA regional reanalysis rainfall data. On the other hand, land cover data were retrieved from the CORINE dataset (CLC) through the Copernicus Land Monitoring Service for different reference years. The appropriate values were assigned to each CLC category per country according to the recent literature to determine the C-factor. In terms of the other three static RUSLE factors, namely soil erodibility (K), slope length and steepness (LS) and support practice (P), these were obtained from the ESDAC database by exploiting the results of previous pan-European assessments. The results indicate that the mean annual soil erosion rates in South Europe were 6.82, 4.90, 4.89 and 5.26 t/ha/year for the decades 1981–1990, 1991–2000, 2001–2010 and 2011–2018, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 2967 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Assessment of Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization–Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations Retrievals towards Estimating the Aerosol Direct Impact on the Shortwave Radiation Budgets in North Africa, Europe, and the Middle East

by Anna Moustaka, Marios-Bruno Korras-Carraca, Kyriakoula Papachristopoulou, Ilias Fountoulakis, Stelios Kazadzis, Emmanouil Proestakis, Vassilis Amiridis, Kleareti Tourpali and Antonis Gkikas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 139; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026139 - 31 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 795

Abstract

The overarching objective of the present study is to assess the quality of the CALIOP–CALIPSO aerosol retrievals towards understanding their advantages and deficiencies. Such analysis is a prerequisite prior to their utilization in a radiation transfer model (RMT) for estimating the clear-sky shortwave [...] Read more.

The overarching objective of the present study is to assess the quality of the CALIOP–CALIPSO aerosol retrievals towards understanding their advantages and deficiencies. Such analysis is a prerequisite prior to their utilization in a radiation transfer model (RMT) for estimating the clear-sky shortwave (SW) aerosol-induced direct radiative effects (DREs) within the Earth–Atmosphere system. The study region encompasses North Africa, the Middle East, and Europe (NAMEE domain), and the period of interest ranges from 2007 to 2020. A holistic approach has been adopted involving spaceborne retrievals (CALIOP–CALIPSO and MODIS-Aqua) and ground-based measurements (AERONET). Overall, CALIOP underestimates columnar aerosol optical depth (AOD), particularly in dust-rich areas, attributed to various factors (e.g., lidar ratio). In order to demonstrate the significance of an appropriate definition of the lidar ratio, focusing on DREs, three example dust cases are investigated. The CALIPSO dust extinction coefficient profiles are used as inputs to the libRadtran Radiative Transfer Model (RTM) along with other crucial parameters. For each study case, two RTM runs are performed using the default (CALIPSO) and an updated (DeliAn) dust lidar ratio. Our results indicate remarkable differences (up to ~22%) on the surface and atmospheric DREs while varying from 17% to 27% at TOA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 2326 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Diagnostics of Mediterranean Explosive Cyclogenesis Using the Pressure Tendency Equation

by John Kouroutzoglou, Christos Lamaris, Helena A. Flocas, Maria Hatzaki, Georgios Kafkoulas and Platon Patlakas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026140 - 31 Aug 2023

Viewed by 760

Abstract

The objective of this study is the evaluation of the physical processes responsible for the genesis and evolution of an explosive cyclone in the central Mediterranean with the aid of the surface pressure tendency equation. For this reason, the equation is solved numerically, [...] Read more.

The objective of this study is the evaluation of the physical processes responsible for the genesis and evolution of an explosive cyclone in the central Mediterranean with the aid of the surface pressure tendency equation. For this reason, the equation is solved numerically, providing the opportunity to quantitatively specify the relative significance of the diabatic processes in Mediterranean explosive cyclogenesis, contrary to the qualitative approach of previous studies. Our approach allows for the first time a direct comparison of the physical mechanisms between the cyclogenesis over the northern and the southern part of the central Mediterranean. The results demonstrate that the interaction between the upper level baroclinic and low-level diabatic processes triggered the development of the explosive cyclone, but low-level baroclinicity and diabatic processes prevailed during the cyclone evolution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 1284 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Global and Diffuse Solar Radiation Trends Using GEBA & BSRN Ground Based Measurements during 1984–2018

by Michael Stamatis, Pavlos Ioannou, Marios-Bruno Korras-Carraca and Nikolaos Hatzianastassiou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 141; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026141 - 31 Aug 2023

Viewed by 590

Abstract

Surface solar radiation (SSR) is a crucial parameter for both the Earth’s climate and human activities, and it consists of two components: the direct beam from the sun and diffuse radiation, with the latter being scattered by atmospheric molecules, aerosols, or clouds. The [...] Read more.

Surface solar radiation (SSR) is a crucial parameter for both the Earth’s climate and human activities, and it consists of two components: the direct beam from the sun and diffuse radiation, with the latter being scattered by atmospheric molecules, aerosols, or clouds. The multidecadal variations of SSR, known as Global Dimming and Brightening (GDB), should also arise from a corresponding variability of either the direct or the diffuse radiation. Thus, the determination of the trends of both the direct and the diffuse radiation is important for showing the causes of GDB. In the present study, we estimate the trends of global and diffuse radiation on a global scale during the period 1984–2018, using worldwide reference ground-based measurements from the Global Energy Balance Archive (GEBA) and the Baseline Surface Radiation Network (BSRN). An increasing tendency of SSR is observed over most locations on our planet, while a decreasing trend occurs in India. On the other hand, the diffuse radiation has decreased over Europe and parts of Asia, whereas it has increased over the USA, India, and East Asia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 2422 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluation of Urban Bioclimatic Measurements towards an Easier and more Affordable Method of Instrumental Monitoring

by Emmanouil Melas, Athina Mela, Ioannis Tsiros and Georgios Varelidis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026142 - 31 Aug 2023

Viewed by 557

Abstract

Thermal comfort is a key aspect of optimal conditions in urban public spaces. Air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and globe temperature measurements are critical components of bioclimatic research in the broader scientific field of urban space quality assessment. The evaluation of thermal [...] Read more.

Thermal comfort is a key aspect of optimal conditions in urban public spaces. Air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and globe temperature measurements are critical components of bioclimatic research in the broader scientific field of urban space quality assessment. The evaluation of thermal comfort in public spaces frequently requires field measurements over long periods and at multiple sites at the same time. This can be challenging on a qualitative and quantitative level. Finding the most accurate way to collect such data in an accessible and manageable way is crucial in the context of an urban field study. Data from various instruments were evaluated and statistically compared in order to assess possible instrument synergy or even similarities that would allow a transition to a simplified way of measuring these determinants of thermal comfort. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 3043 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Spatial Variation of Thermal Conditions in Athens Metropolitan Area, Greece

by Katerina Pantavou, Vassiliki Kotroni and Kostas Lagouvardos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026143 - 31 Aug 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 620

Abstract

Climate change raises concerns over the sustainability of the outdoor thermal environment and its impacts on societies. This study aims to examine the thermal conditions in Athens metropolitan area, Greece. Hourly data from 15 stations of the Automatic Weather Station Network of the [...] Read more.

Climate change raises concerns over the sustainability of the outdoor thermal environment and its impacts on societies. This study aims to examine the thermal conditions in Athens metropolitan area, Greece. Hourly data from 15 stations of the Automatic Weather Station Network of the National Observatory of Athens (2010–2021) were used to estimate the Net Effective Temperature (NET) and the Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI). The NET and UTCI were higher within the Athens basin (NET: mean ± sd = 15.3 ± 7.1 °C; UTCI: mean ± sd = 18.9 ± 10.4 °C) than in the surrounding area (NET: mean ± sd = 11.2 ± 9.3 °C; UTCI: mean ± sd = 13.4 ± 13.4 °C; p < 0.001). The highest numbers of hours with unfavorable warm conditions were found in Faliro (28.6%, NET; 27.7%, UTCI), Neos Kosmos (28.6%, NET; 27.4%, UTCI) and Patissia (28.6%, NET; 27.2%, UTCI). With respect to unfavorable cool conditions, the highest number was in Spata (65.1%, NET; 28.4%, UTCI). Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 221 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Plastics, Bioplastics and Water Pollution

by Ioanna Damikouka and Olga Georgiadou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026144 - 31 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1414

Abstract

Microplastics are a ubiquitous environmental pollutant that can potentially pose a threat to both aquatic organisms and to human health. Prevention methods are pivotal to microplastic mitigation, and new trends are emerging, that include a growing industry of alternative materials. Bioplastics and biodegradable [...] Read more.

Microplastics are a ubiquitous environmental pollutant that can potentially pose a threat to both aquatic organisms and to human health. Prevention methods are pivotal to microplastic mitigation, and new trends are emerging, that include a growing industry of alternative materials. Bioplastics and biodegradable products are emerging as a possible solution to mitigate pollution from petroleum-based single-use and limited-use items. The paper presents findings on the occurrence of plastics and microplastics in aquatic systems, on the composition and biodegradability of bioplastics, and on the potential of bioplastics to provide a solution to plastic pollution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

6 pages, 2043 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Are Lower Solar Irradiance and Higher Ambient Particulate Pollution Associated with a Higher Incidence of COVID-19? The Case of the Greater Athens Area

by Despoina D. Tounta, Panagiotis T. Nastos and Konstantinos Eleftheratos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026145 - 31 Aug 2023

Viewed by 588

Abstract

Greece in the period July–August 2021 was affected by two heat waves characterized by very high temperatures. The result was the occurrence of fires in various regions of the country, with Attica being one of the most affected regions of Greece. The atmospheric [...] Read more.

Greece in the period July–August 2021 was affected by two heat waves characterized by very high temperatures. The result was the occurrence of fires in various regions of the country, with Attica being one of the most affected regions of Greece. The atmospheric burden was very high, and the smoke covered the Attica sky at times, affecting the sunshine and by extension the incoming solar radiation. In this study, we examine whether the reduction in solar UV radiation synergistically with the increase in atmospheric particulate pollution was related to the spread of COVID-19 in Attica in the summer of 2021. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 902 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Footprint of Road Transport Emissions: Electric Vehicles and Their Impact on Air Pollution Reduction in Greece

by Georgios Maniotis, Georgios Spyropoulos and Konstantinos Christopoulos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026146 - 1 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1050

Abstract

This work focuses on examining the contribution of passenger cars to CO₂, NO_X, CO, PM₁₀, and NMVOC emissions, as well as the changes in future emissions resulting from the usage of different types of vehicles. Initially, the [...] Read more.

This work focuses on examining the contribution of passenger cars to CO₂, NO_X, CO, PM₁₀, and NMVOC emissions, as well as the changes in future emissions resulting from the usage of different types of vehicles. Initially, the importance of the road transport sector is discussed, followed by a presentation of data regarding the vehicle fleet. Subsequently, a methodology for forecasting the fleet, and calculating emissions, is introduced. Finally, the results are presented, focusing on the release of gaseous pollutants under different possible scenarios regarding the extent of electric vehicle penetration into the passenger vehicle fleet, for the year 2030. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 223 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

How Did the COVID-19 Lockdown Affect Maternal Vitamin D (25(OH)D) Levels in Pregnant Women through Improved Air Quality?

by Artemisia Kokkinari, Maria Dagla, Aikaterini Lykeridou, Konstantinos Bagianos and Georgios Iatrakis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026147 - 1 Sep 2023

Viewed by 792

Abstract

Background: During the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, lockdown was implemented, which likely reduced maternal 25(OH)D levels in pregnancy due to reduced sun exposure from social distancing measures and confinement at home. At the same time, however, due to the lockdown and the [...] Read more.

Background: During the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, lockdown was implemented, which likely reduced maternal 25(OH)D levels in pregnancy due to reduced sun exposure from social distancing measures and confinement at home. At the same time, however, due to the lockdown and the ban on the free movement of vehicles, the emissions of many atmospheric pollutants also decreased. We know that air pollution and low ground level ultraviolet B radiation (UVB; 290–315) can deteriorate the body’s vitamin D status in healthy women living in a polluted area, which plays a significant independent role in vitamin D deficiency (VDD) and, hence, residence can be one of the main reasons of vitamin D status in women. The reduction in air pollution likely produced positive changes in maternal 25(OH)D levels. Methods: We studied serum 25(OH)D in mothers who came for delivery, with stratified random sampling, from 27 September 2019 to April 14, 2021. We divided our sample into the pre-COVID period and the post-COVID period. Quantitative results of 25(OH)D vitamin levels on the mother were converted to qualitative variables assessing lack of 25(OH)D, adequacy, deficiency, and severe deficiency of maternal concentrations and, thus, defined. The results of 25(OH)D are presented as means ± standard deviations or by frequencies and percentages. The Chi-square test was used to find an association between maternal 25(OH)D concentrations within the COVID-19 period. Results: The results of our study showed a paradox. The mean values of 25(OH)D levels of the mothers were statistically significantly higher during the COVID-19 period compared to the pre-COVID-19 period. Conclusions: In conclusion, pregnant women should be encouraged to lead a healthier lifestyle, avoid being outside during rush hours, take nature walks, not smoke, exercise, take leisurely morning walks in the sun, and taking take their vitamin D supplements, which are recommended according to the gestational age, imitating all that they did during the pandemic, in order to avoid VDD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

6 pages, 1177 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Effect of Apparent Temperature on All-Cause Mortality in England, UK

by Kyriaki Psistaki and Anastasia K. Paschalidou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026148 - 1 Sep 2023

Viewed by 715

Abstract

This work explores the impact of thermal stress on natural-cause mortality in the nine Office of National Statistics regions of England using the thermal index Apparent Temperature as the exposure indicator. A standard time-series Poisson regression analysis for over-dispersed data was used, along [...] Read more.

This work explores the impact of thermal stress on natural-cause mortality in the nine Office of National Statistics regions of England using the thermal index Apparent Temperature as the exposure indicator. A standard time-series Poisson regression analysis for over-dispersed data was used, along with distributed lag non-linear models, setting a lag period of 21 days to account for the delayed effects of temperature. Regional differences in the exposure–response relationships were revealed. On the whole, the results demonstrated that the population in England is more vulnerable to cold effects and highlighted the dominant health impact of moderately low temperatures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 2932 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Analysis of Current and Future Heating and Cooling Degree Days over Greece Using Observations and Regional Climate Model Simulations

by Athanasios Karagiannids, Konstantinos Lagouvardos, Vassiliki Kotroni and Elissavet Galanaki

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026149 - 1 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1259

Abstract

Heating and Cooling Degree Days (HDD, CDD) are indicative of the energy needs of buildings and also are associated with agriculturalism, tourism and other outdoor activities. Under the changing climate, future modifications of HDD and CDD are of primary importance. In the present [...] Read more.

Heating and Cooling Degree Days (HDD, CDD) are indicative of the energy needs of buildings and also are associated with agriculturalism, tourism and other outdoor activities. Under the changing climate, future modifications of HDD and CDD are of primary importance. In the present work, monthly and annual HDD and CDD are computed and analyzed for the present and near future climate conditions. Elevation and sea proximity were found to be crucial in the formulation of energy requirements. Summer energy needs for cooling are expected to increase due to global warming while winter needs for heating are expected to decrease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 3584 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Modelling Future Forest Fire Risk for the Tourism Sector of Crete

by Magdalini Tzouveleki, Maria Hatzaki, Varvara Antoniou, Anna Karali and Christos Giannakopoulos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026150 - 1 Sep 2023

Viewed by 887

Abstract

Wildfires are one of the strongest drivers of degradation of Mediterranean ecosystems, while weather and climate are among the main factors influencing fire potential. From this perspective, we attempt to assess the future forest fire risk in Crete in the near (2046–2065) and [...] Read more.

Wildfires are one of the strongest drivers of degradation of Mediterranean ecosystems, while weather and climate are among the main factors influencing fire potential. From this perspective, we attempt to assess the future forest fire risk in Crete in the near (2046–2065) and distant future (2081–2100), under the Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) of RCP2.6, RCP4.5, and RCP8.5. A risk assessment model was developed according to the conceptual framework of the “impact chain”, as defined by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), aiming at the formulation of a final composite risk index. The multicriteria spatial analysis, which was implemented with GIS techniques, highlighted the areas that are expected to be heavily affected in the future. It was found that the forest fire risk for the tourism sector increases with the higher emissions scenarios and towards the end of the century, with the south and central parts of the island exhibiting ‘very high’ risk. The effectiveness of this method is underlined, both in terms of implementing the necessary preventive measures against the adverse effects of climate change and of strengthening adaptation planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 764 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Future Evolution of Agroclimatic Indicators over a Viticulture Area in Greece

by Vasileios Pavlidis, Stergios Kartsios, Maria Chara Karypidou and Eleni Katragkou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 151; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026151 - 1 Sep 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 721

Abstract

This study aims to provide insight regarding the future evolution of a series of important agroclimatic indicators for a specific farming area of viticulture in Stimagka, Greece. The calculated indicators cover various aspects of the climate and its impact on agriculture and can [...] Read more.

This study aims to provide insight regarding the future evolution of a series of important agroclimatic indicators for a specific farming area of viticulture in Stimagka, Greece. The calculated indicators cover various aspects of the climate and its impact on agriculture and can be categorized into four broad categories: temperature-, precipitation-, drought-, and animal comfort-related indicators. An ensemble of state-of-the-art regional climate model simulations with a spatial resolution of 12 km are used to calculate the indicators for the period 1986–2055. For the period 2006–2055, two scenarios of possible future evolution of anthropogenic greenhouse gases are used: rcp4.5 and rcp8.5. Results indicate a clear future increase in temperature-related indicators in the region and also more persistent drought conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 6623 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Assessing the Impact of Aeolus Wind Profiles in WRF-Chem Model Dust Simulations in September 2021

by Eleni Drakaki, Vassilis Amiridis, Antonis Gkikas, Eleni Marinou, Emmanouil Proestakis, Georgios Papangelis, Angela Benedetti, Michael Rennie, Christian Retscher, Demetri Bouris and Petros Katsafados

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 152; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026152 - 1 Sep 2023

Viewed by 872

Abstract

Windblown dust plays a crucial role in the Earth system, impacting climate, ecosystems, human activities, and health. The spatiotemporal evolution of dust plumes during transport is determined by wind, the primary driver of dust emission. In this study, we utilize outputs from the [...] Read more.

Windblown dust plays a crucial role in the Earth system, impacting climate, ecosystems, human activities, and health. The spatiotemporal evolution of dust plumes during transport is determined by wind, the primary driver of dust emission. In this study, we utilize outputs from the ECMWF-IFS, assimilating quality-assured Aeolus wind profiles, to initialize dust simulations with the WRF-Chem model. The aim is to assess the impact of Aeolus wind observations on modeling the desert dust cycle. Focusing on the ASKOS/JATAC campaign in September 2021 near Cabo Verde, we qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate the simulated dust-related outputs, revealing that even small differences in wind significantly affect the simulated dust emission rates and dust optical depth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1545 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Urban Air Quality in a Residential Building in Athens, Greece

by Marita-Louiza Nikolakou and George Spyropoulos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026153 - 1 Sep 2023

Viewed by 897

Abstract

Being comfortable and healthy in one’s home is of the utmost importance and a contributing factor to the quality of their life, and it is greatly affected by the air quality of the residence. Therefore, the subject of this paper centres around the [...] Read more.

Being comfortable and healthy in one’s home is of the utmost importance and a contributing factor to the quality of their life, and it is greatly affected by the air quality of the residence. Therefore, the subject of this paper centres around the indoor air quality (IAQ) of a standard household in central Athens and how these components influence human health. The air quality assessment is conducted using particulate matter (PM) on-site continuous measurements taken from low-cost sensors (PurpleAir) installed both inside and outside the house. Focusing especially on PM_2.5 data from September 2021 to September 2022, the Air Quality Index (AQI) and the number of exceedances are evaluated in detail, investigating the association between indoor and outdoor environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 551 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Can Greek Twitter Provide Insight into the Users’ Opinions on the Adverse Effects on Health Caused by Climate Change?

by Vasiliki-Athina Tyrologou, Georgia Merkouriadi, Ioanna Karefyllaki, Nefeli Giannopoulou Marini, Christos Markou, Konstantinos Kesanopoulos and Anastasia Barbouni

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 154; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026154 - 4 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1001

Abstract

Climate change is a pressing global issue with significant impacts on human health. This study used a digital surveillance system on Twitter to investigate Greek-speaking users’ sentiments and opinions regarding climate change’s effects on human health. The study utilized a set of 61 [...] Read more.

Climate change is a pressing global issue with significant impacts on human health. This study used a digital surveillance system on Twitter to investigate Greek-speaking users’ sentiments and opinions regarding climate change’s effects on human health. The study utilized a set of 61 keywords to collect 2.774 tweets from the last decade, which were manually analyzed for content and user type. The analysis revealed that news outlets mainly published informational tweets, whereas personal accounts expressed attitudes, opinions, perceptions, and beliefs. Moreover, the study found that Greek-speaking Twitter users are actively discussing climate change, particularly its consequences on their health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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4 pages, 1162 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Causal Drivers of Mediterranean Winter Climate Variability

by Maria Hatzaki, Giorgia Di Capua, John Chaniotis, Platon Patlakas, Reik V. Donner and Helena A. Flocas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 155; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026155 - 4 Sep 2023

Viewed by 785

Abstract

As a significant component of natural climatic variability, teleconnection patterns play an important role in determining regional climate variability and extremes. The mechanisms linking the North Atlantic and the Mediterranean climate variability have not been rigorously demonstrated so far. Traditional statistical analysis of [...] Read more.

As a significant component of natural climatic variability, teleconnection patterns play an important role in determining regional climate variability and extremes. The mechanisms linking the North Atlantic and the Mediterranean climate variability have not been rigorously demonstrated so far. Traditional statistical analysis of climate variability has vastly exploited concepts based on linear correlations and composites, nonetheless, with several weaknesses. The recently developed powerful concept of causal effect network (CEN) allows the detection of the causal relationships among a set of univariate time series (actors) by removing the confounding effects of autocorrelation, indirect links, and common drivers, retaining eventually only the actual causal links. In this study, we investigate the causal interaction mechanisms linking large-scale atmospheric variability with the Mediterranean winter climate by applying for the first time the CEN analysis. Results reveal causal links among the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO), Eastern Mediterranean Pattern (EMP), and Eastern Atlantic (EA) teleconnection patterns, while the NAO acts as a causal driver for Mediterranean winter temperatures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1462 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

ICON (ICOsahedral Non-hydrostatic) Model Sensitivity over the Central Mediterranean

by Euripides Avgoustoglou, Alon Shtivelman, Pavel Khain, Chiara Marsigli, Yoav Levi and Ines Cerenzia

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 156; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026156 - 4 Sep 2023

Viewed by 717

Abstract

The sensitivity of the ICON model is gauged towards the establishment of ICON-LEPS in place of the currently operational COSMO-LEPS. A broad list of the model’s parameters were tested over a domain covering the wider area of Greece and Italy in the year [...] Read more.

The sensitivity of the ICON model is gauged towards the establishment of ICON-LEPS in place of the currently operational COSMO-LEPS. A broad list of the model’s parameters were tested over a domain covering the wider area of Greece and Italy in the year 2020. ICON model runs were performed on a 6.5 km horizontal grid and were enforced by the ECMWF operational forecast in 3 h intervals. The model’s sensitivities were applied to several surface meteorological fields via their areal averages in the last (132nd) lead time hour of the model runs, when they were expected to be at their climax. It was found that there was a considerable impact regarding the minimum and maximum values for many of the examined parameters in reference to their default values, providing a valuable insight into the understanding of the ICON model in reference to previous works regarding the COSMO model. In addition, due to the extensive forecast period, a seasonal dependence with respect to the considered meteorological fields was displayed. These features are expected to be of major importance in deciding the most important parameters for the application of perturbation techniques in the ensemble process and methodology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1215 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Short-Term Forecasting of Rainfall Using Sequentially Deep LSTM Networks: A Case Study on a Semi-Arid Region

by Ilias Chamatidis, Georgios Tzanes, Denis Istrati, Nikos D. Lagaros and Anastasios Stamou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 157; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026157 - 4 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1210

Abstract

Weather prediction is a key aspect of today’s society and its activities. Accurate predictions are crucial for efficiently organizing human activities, particularly in the agricultural, transportation and energy sectors. In this paper, two deep neural networks, designed based on a long short-term memory [...] Read more.

Weather prediction is a key aspect of today’s society and its activities. Accurate predictions are crucial for efficiently organizing human activities, particularly in the agricultural, transportation and energy sectors. In this paper, two deep neural networks, designed based on a long short-term memory architecture, are developed to predict the occurrence of rainfall events and the respective amount of rainfall on the island of Nisyros in the south Aegean Sea. Two deep neural networks are developed, serving two different learning tasks. The first network acts as a classifier that assesses whether it is going to rain or not and, sequentially, the second network performs a regression task, quantifying the anticipated amount of rainfall. The performance of such prediction models is highly dependent on input sequences. Among others, the lookback time window shapes those input sequences by determining the number of past time steps to be taken into account. The ideal time window for the classifier involves 24 time steps (i.e., 4 h), resulting in increased accuracy levels exceeding 96.45%. The predictions of the regression model, which has the same lookback time window, feature low errors, measured as 6.635 and 1.411 mm using the mean-square-error and mean-absolute-error indices, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 2934 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Background Error Statistics Analysis over the Mediterranean: The Impact on 3DVAR Data Assimilation

by Ioannis Samos, Helena Flocas and Petroula Louka

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026158 - 4 Sep 2023

Viewed by 902

Abstract

Data assimilation is a technique used to combine observational data with numerical weather analysis fields to produce input conditions for Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models aimed at more accurate forecasts. In this study, two different regional Background Error (BE) covariance statistics are evaluated [...] Read more.

Data assimilation is a technique used to combine observational data with numerical weather analysis fields to produce input conditions for Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models aimed at more accurate forecasts. In this study, two different regional Background Error (BE) covariance statistics are evaluated for the implementation of a Weather Research and Forecast (WRF) model using Variational Data Assimilation (VAR) schemes. Two different WRF model forecasts, initialized at different times, are compared to calculate different regional BE statistics based on the National Meteorological Center (NMC) technique. These statistics are then used in the three-dimensional variational (3DVAR) data assimilation process to produce analysis fields for a 15 day period during September 2019. The study compares the forecasts produced using the two different ΒΕ statistics and presents the results of the analysis fields during the medicane “Ianos” formed in September 2020 in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. The study demonstrates the importance of BE statistics’ usage in data assimilation. The results suggest that different initialization times can lead to significant differences in weather evolution. The study also highlights the need for caution in the choice of BE statistics and the importance of best practices in data assimilation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 2741 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Modeling the Impact of Climate Change on the Hydrology of Eurotas Basin

by Natalia Kotsianou and Elissavet Feloni

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026159 - 4 Sep 2023

Viewed by 619

Abstract

Climate change (CC) has altered the hydrological cycle, mainly due to changes in temperature and precipitation, leading indirectly to regional water shortage issues, especially in the Mediterranean areas. The objective of this work was the investigation of the CC impact on water resources. [...] Read more.

Climate change (CC) has altered the hydrological cycle, mainly due to changes in temperature and precipitation, leading indirectly to regional water shortage issues, especially in the Mediterranean areas. The objective of this work was the investigation of the CC impact on water resources. Hydrological simulations under several CC scenarios were performed for the Vivari subbasin, located in the Eurotas river basin, Peloponnese, Greece. The analysis was carried out by applying the Thomas ABCD water balance model on a monthly basis, initially for the period between 2005 and 2009, to calibrate the model using available runoff measurements. Then, CC scenarios were incorporated into the model and the results are presented indicatively for three periods: a historic period (1970–2000), which was used as the reference period for comparisons; and two future periods: 2031–2060 and 2061–2090. Simulations for the three periods were based on freely available monthly precipitation and temperature timeseries, which were provided by the Data Extraction Application for Regional Climate (DEAR-Clima) web application tool. Results regarding average values, trends, and other statistics for monthly runoff are provided for the three periods and for several scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 4360 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Impact of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) Variability on the Mediterranean Climate

by Nikoleta Petridi, Iliana Polychroni and Maria Hatzaki

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026160 - 4 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1359

Abstract

The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is a major oceanic circulation system in the Atlantic Ocean, which transports heat to the poles and cold saline waters to the tropics. The AMOC mechanism is responsible for many climate and weather systems; however, it is [...] Read more.

The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is a major oceanic circulation system in the Atlantic Ocean, which transports heat to the poles and cold saline waters to the tropics. The AMOC mechanism is responsible for many climate and weather systems; however, it is naturally unstable, and it changes in time depending on sea-ice melt, wind patterns, solar radiation variations, etc. At the same time, there are recent indications that the AMOC is in a weaker state than previously thought with impacts more severe than expected. Knowing that the AMOC can impact remote systems, and given the risk the Mediterranean faces with climate change progressing, we focus on the relationship between the AMOC and the Mediterranean climate, based on AMOC indicators and monthly ERA5 fields (sea surface temperature, air temperature and total precipitation) from 1959 to 2021. We find that the two systems exhibit a relationship although it is not homogenous. More specifically, the AMOC is highly correlated with sea and air temperatures of the central and eastern Mediterranean with a time lag of up to 2 years, while strong links are found with the entire Mediterranean’s annual total precipitation up to 3 years ahead. The results suggest the possibility of predicting the occurrence of significantly extreme periods in the Mediterranean several months in advance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1522 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Innovative Polygon Trend Analysis (IPTA): A Case Study for Precipitation in Thessaloniki during the Last 50 Years (1971–2020)

by Petroula Karacosta, Nikoletta Pakalidou, Maria Douka and Theodore Karacostas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026161 - 4 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1086

Abstract

In the present study, the introduction of the Innovative Polygon Trend Analysis (IPTA), a non-parametric trend analysis methodology, is proposed as an alternative to the classical trend analysis methodology, according to which processes (normality, independence, and pre-whitening) are not necessary. Monthly precipitation measurements [...] Read more.

In the present study, the introduction of the Innovative Polygon Trend Analysis (IPTA), a non-parametric trend analysis methodology, is proposed as an alternative to the classical trend analysis methodology, according to which processes (normality, independence, and pre-whitening) are not necessary. Monthly precipitation measurements from Thessaloniki are analysed for the period 1971–2020, subdivided into two consecutive equal periods, to identify inherent trends among months and seasons, respectively. A finer interpretation of trends, with physical and numerical explanations and inferences, leads to the obtained results; the total monthly and seasonal precipitation values, their associated standard deviations, as well as trend slopes and trend lengths, are depicted. Increasing trends between the two sub-periods are identified for most months: winter and autumn. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 224 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Green Transition in the Cities: European Union and Greek Strategies Supporting Energy-Sufficient Households

by Katerina Christoforaki

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 162; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026162 - 4 Sep 2023

Viewed by 644

Abstract

Amidst global health crises, Europe now faces a challenging energy crisis, impacting the economy and society. To address this, the European Union (EU) established a fund with social criteria to combat energy poverty, promote greener technology, and support lower-income citizens. However, addressing energy [...] Read more.

Amidst global health crises, Europe now faces a challenging energy crisis, impacting the economy and society. To address this, the European Union (EU) established a fund with social criteria to combat energy poverty, promote greener technology, and support lower-income citizens. However, addressing energy poverty and social exclusion requires a comprehensive, long-term strategy. Ensuring equitable funding distribution among industries poses monitoring challenges, potentially excluding small businesses. This paper discusses the EU’s Social Climate Fund, set to launch in 2025, outlining its objectives and examining energy poverty in Greece. It critically evaluates past strategies to inform future policy-making and strategy formation for complex issues. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

7 pages, 1619 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Are Complete Blood Count Parameters Associated with Climate and Environmental Factors? A Retrospective Study in the General Population of Fokis, Greece (Athens, 2023)

by Athanasia Sergounioti, Dimitris Rigas, Petros Paplomatas, Aristidis Vrahatis and Konstantinos Lagouvardos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 163; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026163 - 4 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1500

Abstract

The complete blood count (CBC), a cost-effective blood test, offers insights into the cell composition of blood, including white and red blood cells and platelets. Novel inflammatory biomarkers derived from combinations of CBC parameters include the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, reflect systemic and local inflammation. [...] Read more.

The complete blood count (CBC), a cost-effective blood test, offers insights into the cell composition of blood, including white and red blood cells and platelets. Novel inflammatory biomarkers derived from combinations of CBC parameters include the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, reflect systemic and local inflammation. In this retrospective study, we successfully leveraged bioinformatics analysis to examine potential correlations between CBC biomarkers and climate and environmental factors, including temperature, humidity, and rainfall, in Fokis, Greece for a 4-year period (2019–2022). Our findings provide valuable insights into how these environmental factors might influence blood cell parameters in the general population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 6533 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Predictability of the Synoptic-Scale Fire Weather Conditions during the 2018 Mati Wildfire

by Georgios Papavasileiou and Theodore M. Giannaros

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 164; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026164 - 4 Sep 2023

Viewed by 818

Abstract

Forecasting and characterizing fire weather conditions over a region days in advance is of great importance for developing early warning systems and supporting effective wildfire management. Furthermore, it is important for increasing awareness and preparedness of all the involved entities, including both the [...] Read more.

Forecasting and characterizing fire weather conditions over a region days in advance is of great importance for developing early warning systems and supporting effective wildfire management. Furthermore, it is important for increasing awareness and preparedness of all the involved entities, including both the public and practitioners. In addition, considering climate projections over the Mediterranean, which indicate an environment more conducive to wildfire activity, the need for timely forecasting of extreme fire weather days becomes increasingly urgent. In this work we present an application of the newly developed fire weather forecasting framework that employs the concept of critical fire weather patterns on the 2018 Mati wildfire. Within our fire weather forecasting framework, we assign the large-scale circulation pattern to one of the predefined critical fire weather patterns of Greece which are associated with different levels of fire danger based on the dominating fire weather conditions and expected fire behavior. For the purpose of this study, we use historical forecast data to assess the predictability of the synoptic-scale fire weather conditions using the critical fire weather patterns, and we discuss the main advantages of the presented forecasting framework. This fire weather forecasting framework is applied operationally by the METEO Unit of the National Observatory of Athens within the frame of the “FLAME” project since the 2022 fire season in Greece. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 4722 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

On the Dependence of WRF Model Air Temperature and Precipitation Forecast Skill on the Weather Type for Northwestern Greece

by Dimitrios C. Chaskos, Christos J. Lolis, Vasiliki Kotroni and Aristides Bartzokas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 165; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026165 - 4 Sep 2023

Viewed by 680

Abstract

The WRF model temperature and precipitation forecast skill for the area of northwestern Greece is examined separately for each of the 10 objectively defined Weather Types (WTs). The WTs are defined for the 10-year period: 1 January 2009–31 December 2018. Their definition is [...] Read more.

The WRF model temperature and precipitation forecast skill for the area of northwestern Greece is examined separately for each of the 10 objectively defined Weather Types (WTs). The WTs are defined for the 10-year period: 1 January 2009–31 December 2018. Their definition is achieved with the application of k-means Cluster Analysis on ERA5 meteorological data. The WRF model is applied in three domains (Europe—Greece—NW Greece) using the one-way nesting technique in a spatial resolution of 18, 6 and 2 km. Specifically, the model runs for 64 days (10% of the number of days attributed to the WT with the highest number of days) with the lowest distances from each WT’s cluster center. The WRF forecast data of 2 m air temperature and precipitation are compared with the available meteorological observations operated by the METEO unit at the National Observatory of Athens. The validation of 2 m air temperature is performed for 04UTC and 12UTC for the first and second days of forecast using the Cressman method, separately for each meteorological station and WT. The validation of precipitation is performed for daily accumulated values for the first and second days of forecast, using forecast data from the 3 × 3 = 9 surrounding grid points of each meteorological station and calculating categorical statistics based on contingency tables for each WT and for different thresholds. According to the results, there is a remarkable overestimation of 04UTC air temperature for the anticyclonic WTs, especially for the inland stations, while the precipitation forecast skill generally depends on the threshold and the WT characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 3066 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Analysis of the Extreme Weather Event “Athina” in Early October 2021

by Eleftheria Tsiniari and Euripides Avgoustoglou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 166; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026166 - 4 Sep 2023

Viewed by 589

Abstract

Extreme weather events are identified as a major area of interest, and further consideration is demanded. This study investigates the synoptic and dynamic aspects of a storm system, named “Athina”, that affected most of Greece in early October 2021. This system is synoptically [...] Read more.

Extreme weather events are identified as a major area of interest, and further consideration is demanded. This study investigates the synoptic and dynamic aspects of a storm system, named “Athina”, that affected most of Greece in early October 2021. This system is synoptically attributed to a low surface pressure generated in the Gulf of Genoa, linked to a mid-tropospheric, almost neutral tilted trough, over central Europe. “Athina” brought heavy rain and strong winds to many parts of Greece, causing flooding and landslides in several areas and caused travel disruptions, with ferries and flights cancelled due to the adverse weather conditions. The worst-hit regions were the northwestern part of the country and Evia. Synoptic maps for upper and lower troposphere, observations from Hellenic National Meteorological Service’s network, and satellite imagery were usedfor the analysis of this weather event. The results from a regional numerical weather prediction model are also presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 1606 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Hydrochemical Assessment of the Aquifer of Thermal Waters in Llixha, Elbasan, Using Stiff Diagrams

by Elvin Çomo, Albana Hasimi, Emanuela Kiri, Edlira Tako and Astrit Shatro

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026167 - 4 Sep 2023

Viewed by 813

Abstract

The Elbasani region is characterized by its strong hydrodynamics regime, which comes from the powerful movements of underground water combined with many resources; therefore, the area has geothermal potential, and is one of the most popularly used in our country. This area has [...] Read more.

The Elbasani region is characterized by its strong hydrodynamics regime, which comes from the powerful movements of underground water combined with many resources; therefore, the area has geothermal potential, and is one of the most popularly used in our country. This area has a number of sources, located in the form of a chain in the sector between Llixha and Hidrajt, and constitutes a thermomineral basin with a stable discharge and high temperature, at the upper limits of low enthalpy, reaching above 60 °C. The current average flow of thermal water is about 15–18 L/s and temperatures vary from 55 to 65 °C. It is estimated that these resources have specific reserves of 39.6 GJ/m² and the potential to install 2760 kW of power. To evaluate their basic physico-chemical parameters and nutrients, water samples were taken throughout 2022 at five monitoring stations, covering the entire aquifer. Stiff diagrams have been used to explain the similarities between the physico-chemical properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 2651 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

eVe Lidar Measurements during the ASKOS/JATAC Campaign

by Peristera Paschou, Nikolaos Siomos, Eleni Marinou, Samira Moussa Idrissa, Daniel Tetteh Quaye, Dêgbé Désiré Fiogbe Attannon, Charoula Meleti, Jonas von Bismarck, Thorsten Fehr and Vassilis Amiridis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 168; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026168 - 5 Sep 2023

Viewed by 849

Abstract

The eVe lidar is a scanning system that can perform combined linear/circular polarization and Raman measurements at 355 nm and consists of the European Space Agency’s (ESA) reference aerosol lidar system. eVe was deployed in the ASKOS campaign, which was held in Cabo [...] Read more.

The eVe lidar is a scanning system that can perform combined linear/circular polarization and Raman measurements at 355 nm and consists of the European Space Agency’s (ESA) reference aerosol lidar system. eVe was deployed in the ASKOS campaign, which was held in Cabo Verde during the summer/autumn of 2021 and 2022, for the validation of the aerosol products of the ESA’s Aeolus mission. During the campaign, eVe performed routine linear/circular depolarization measurements during Aeolus overpasses as well as dual-field-of-view measurements for the investigation of multiple scattering effects on dust layers. Herein, we present an overview of the acquired measurements and findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 5438 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Organization of Convection into Lines in Northern Greece: The Case of 18 May 2007

by Anastasia Dokopoulou, Kostantinos Laskos, Maria Olga Voudouri, Mairi Vlachou and Dimitris Brikas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 169; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026169 - 4 Sep 2023

Viewed by 535

Abstract

The synoptic–meso-α scale study of a convective line shows that the latter was favored by the vertical superposition of the passage of an ULFnt onto a low-level convergence line. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 1968 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

How Accurate Climate Information Can Help the Climate Adaptation in Regional Scale: The Case Study of Sitia

by Alesia Margarita Golemi, Effrosyni Karakitsou, Stelios Karozis, Iason Markantonis, Nadia Politi, Athanasios Sfetsos, Diamando Vlachogiannis and Pavlos Kapetanakis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 170; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026170 - 5 Sep 2023

Viewed by 2104

Abstract

According to the recent IPCC report, the Mediterranean, and consequently the region of Sitia, is one of the European “climate hotspots”. Its complex geomorphology and multiple locations with very distinct microclimate characteristics make high-resolution climate projections critical for the appropriate determination of effective [...] Read more.

According to the recent IPCC report, the Mediterranean, and consequently the region of Sitia, is one of the European “climate hotspots”. Its complex geomorphology and multiple locations with very distinct microclimate characteristics make high-resolution climate projections critical for the appropriate determination of effective local adaptation policies. The paper demonstrates the significance of the dynamical downscaling of climate information from 20 km × 20 km to a 5 km × 5 km scale of temperature, precipitation, drought, and fire risk for the region of Sitia and present, near-, and far-future climate projections using RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 3102 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Change in Aridity Index in the Mediterranean Region under Different Emission Scenarios

by Kostas Douvis, John Kapsomenakis, Stavros Solomos, Anastasia Poupkou, Theodora Stavraka, Panagiotis Nastos and Christos Zerefos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 171; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026171 - 5 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 832

Abstract

In the present study, the spatial and temporal variability of the Aridity Index (AI) in the Mediterranean region during the 30-year period 1971–2000 is analyzed. The analysis is performed on a decadal timescale. Subsequently, the projected change in the AI in the periods [...] Read more.

In the present study, the spatial and temporal variability of the Aridity Index (AI) in the Mediterranean region during the 30-year period 1971–2000 is analyzed. The analysis is performed on a decadal timescale. Subsequently, the projected change in the AI in the periods 2031–2060 (near future) and 2071–2100 (far future) under the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 emission scenarios in comparison with 1971–2000 (reference period) is presented. The input of the calculations are simulation results supplied by the CORDEX EU project. In total, an ensemble of 20 combinations of global climate models (GCMs) and regional climate models (RCMs) are used. The calculation of the AI is based on potential evapotranspiration, which, in turn, is calculated according to the classic method of Thornthwaite. Our results show that drier conditions are to be expected in the future along a wide zone in southern Europe, including Spain, Italy, Bulgaria, Greece and Turkey, as well as in Northern Africa, particularly under the RCP8.5 scenario and towards the end of the century. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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8 pages, 2574 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Break of the Etesian Winds Regime Early in July 2022

by Nicholas G. Prezerakos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 172; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026172 - 5 Sep 2023

Viewed by 638

Abstract

The predominant climatological wind regime in summer over the Greek Seas and especially over the Aegean Sea is undoubtedly the Etesian winds system, very well known since the time of the ancient Greeks, who first identified and described its main characteristics. The Etesian [...] Read more.

The predominant climatological wind regime in summer over the Greek Seas and especially over the Aegean Sea is undoubtedly the Etesian winds system, very well known since the time of the ancient Greeks, who first identified and described its main characteristics. The Etesian winds have been under continuous and intensive research since early 1900s, and numerous papers have been published, which have revealed all the secrets associated with the physical mechanisms responsible for their creation and maintenance. The ordinary synoptic situation, which is closely associated with the appearance of spells of Etesian winds outbreaks over the Aegean Sea, refers to cases in which the Subtropical Jet Stream (SJS) is situated over the Greek mainland. Then the frontal surfaces associated with the Polar Jet Stream (PJS), or a polar jet streak, passing through Greece from the north can cause severe weather in northern Greece as far south as Larisa (39.39° N, 22.26° E). Precipitation does not usually occur south of Larisa, because the SJS constitutes a barrier to the southward extension of the upper half of the frontal surface. In this case, cold advection occurs in the lower troposphere, resulting in a drop in temperatures even in southern Greece, due to the establishment of an Etesian winds outbreak. Thereafter, these north-easterly winds persist for a long time, weakening gradually, following the variation of the pressure gradient due to the combination of the mobile dynamic anticyclone positioned over the Balkans, after the passage of the cold front and the permanent Cyprus surface low. The main goal of this article is to investigate how much the case of a time period around 9 July 2022 differs from the conceptual model mentioned above, as deep convection occurred over all of Greece over three successive days, breaking the Etesian winds regime and defeating the low tropospheric stability usually accompanying this wind regime. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1053 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Effects of Climate Change in Agricultural Areas of Greece, Vulnerability Assessment, Economic-Technical Analysis, and Adaptation Strategies

by Athanasios Sarantopoulos and Stavros Korovesis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 173; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026173 - 5 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 859

Abstract

This pilot study aims to evaluate the impact of climate change on the critical stages of crop growth. Data from agricultural stations in Greece were analyzed to assess the effects of climate change on the country’s agriculture, focusing on areas vulnerable to frost, [...] Read more.

This pilot study aims to evaluate the impact of climate change on the critical stages of crop growth. Data from agricultural stations in Greece were analyzed to assess the effects of climate change on the country’s agriculture, focusing on areas vulnerable to frost, as identified by the Hellenic Agricultural Insurance Organization. The study examined the differences in climate patterns between continental and coastal agricultural regions to determine which areas are more resilient to local climate change. The frequencies of frost events and government subsidies were analyzed. The significance of early spring temperatures and their potential consequences for plant growth and vegetation, if followed by late-frost incidents, was emphasized. The severity and impact of frost events vary depending on the location, vegetation type, and growth stage. The economic importance of frost-sensitive crops, like deciduous fruit trees, citrus, and vines, in Greek agriculture has been highlighted. Given the increasing frequency of adverse weather conditions, the study underscores the need for a resilient and sustainable approach to agriculture, focusing on prevention and adaptation to climate variations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 2679 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Modeling the Impact of the Green Roofs as a Nature-Based Solution to Mitigate the Urban Heat Island Effects over Attica, Greece

by Christina Kalogeri, Christos Spyrou, Marika Koukoula, Pantelis M. Saviolakis, Aikaterini Pappa, Michael Loupis, Charis Masouras and Petros Katsafados

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 174; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026174 - 5 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1397

Abstract

The main aim of this study is to model the Nature-based solution of Green Roofs (GRs) in order to assess their efficiency as a mitigation strategy for UHI effects and extreme summertime temperatures over Attica in Greece. The area of study is a [...] Read more.

The main aim of this study is to model the Nature-based solution of Green Roofs (GRs) in order to assess their efficiency as a mitigation strategy for UHI effects and extreme summertime temperatures over Attica in Greece. The area of study is a region that encompasses Athens, the largest Metropolitan area of Greece, and the suburbs. The analysis has been performed with the use of an advanced modeling system that consists of the mesoscale Weather Research and Forecasting model (WRF) and the advanced multilayer urban canopy scheme building energy parameter and building energy model (BEP/BEM). The two modules are fully coupled, forming WRF urban. For a better description of the urban environment and in order to use the full capabilities of the urban canopy scheme, 11 urban classes corresponding to the WUDAPT Local Climate Zones (LCZ) were used instead of the 3 traditional urban classes that the default version uses. Sensitivity tests for a major heatwave that affected the area of study have been performed in order to evaluate the impact of GRs on the UHI structure. Results indicate that the modification of the roof energy budget decreased the maximum temperature during heatwaves and altered the spatio-temporal pattern of the effect. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 1822 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Integrating Remote and In Situ Data to Compare a Watershed’s Hydrological Response under Pre- and Post-Fire Conditions

by Panagiota Maida, Elissavet Feloni, Panagiotis T. Nastos and Emmanuel Vassilakis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026175 - 5 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 574

Abstract

Climate change has increased forest fire risk across Europe, leading to negative impact on air and water quality, biodiversity, soil and landscape aesthetics. Fire events in Mediterranean areas are linked to adverse effects on watersheds’ hydrological regimes and increased surface runoff. The objective [...] Read more.

Climate change has increased forest fire risk across Europe, leading to negative impact on air and water quality, biodiversity, soil and landscape aesthetics. Fire events in Mediterranean areas are linked to adverse effects on watersheds’ hydrological regimes and increased surface runoff. The objective of this work is to investigate the hydrological response under pre- and post-fire conditions at a catchment scale. The study area is the mountainous area affected by the recent fire events of July 2021 in Cyprus. The methodological approach that was developed and applied involves the GIS-based implementation of the time-area (TA) diagram method for the unit hydrograph (UH) determination, under the two scenarios (pre- and post-fire), as well as the estimation of hydrological losses using the SCS-CN method for both scenarios. Two typical rainfall-runoff events for return periods of 20 and 100 years are compared for both scenarios regarding total runoff volume, peak discharge and time to peak. This first investigation of hydrological changes before and after a fire event in the area leads to the conclusion that, mainly due to the reduction of vegetation and soil permeability, there is a significant increase in the peak flow discharge and the total runoff volume. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 3479 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Stochastic Assessment of Day-Ahead, Wind Energy Curtailment-Driven Demand Response Requirements in Non-Interconnected Island Systems

by Dimitrios Zafirakis, Konstantinos Christopoulos, Konstantinos Moustris and John K. Kaldellis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 176; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026176 - 6 Sep 2023

Viewed by 695

Abstract

Occurrence of wind energy curtailments in non-interconnected island systems of considerable wind power capacity comes as a result of local grid limitations and significant load variation across seasons. Facilitating increased wind energy generation requires flexibility means such as energy storage and/or demand response [...] Read more.

Occurrence of wind energy curtailments in non-interconnected island systems of considerable wind power capacity comes as a result of local grid limitations and significant load variation across seasons. Facilitating increased wind energy generation requires flexibility means such as energy storage and/or demand response (DR), with the latter presenting the advantage of suggesting a non-capital-intensive solution. To that end, in the present study we examine the problem of assessing day-ahead demand response requirements for the recovery of wind energy curtailments and put forward a stochastic approach, supported by the employment of artificial neural networks’ forecasting models and the integration of prediction uncertainties. For the application of our methodology, we use data from the non-interconnected island system of Kos and Kalymnos in the SE Aegean Sea and investigate the dynamics of the proposed DR scheme on the island of Tilos, belonging to the electricity complex of Kos and Kalymnos. At the same time, we perform a parametrical analysis so as to study the impact of appreciating different levels of available DR capacity, with our findings comparing favorably against the results of applying a deterministic approach. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 1921 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Meteorological Parameters in Homer’s Odyssey †

by D.E. Aggelis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026177 - 6 Sep 2023

Viewed by 965

Abstract

Although Homer’s Odyssey is not a scientific or historical work, it reveals certain elements of Meteorology. Weather phenomena during Ulysses’ 10-year return journey reflect empirical observations from the Bronze Age up to the post-Mycenaean era, or even the early Geometric times, probably localized [...] Read more.

Although Homer’s Odyssey is not a scientific or historical work, it reveals certain elements of Meteorology. Weather phenomena during Ulysses’ 10-year return journey reflect empirical observations from the Bronze Age up to the post-Mycenaean era, or even the early Geometric times, probably localized across the Mediterranean Sea. Seeking descriptive characteristics or other features in the Odyssey’s narration, this study is an attempt to build up a scientific approach in several items, e.g., wind fields considering related tests for comparison. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 761 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Climate Change and Adverse Public Health Impacts on Human Health and Water Resources

by Ioannis Adamopoulos, Aikaterini Frantzana, Jovanna Adamopoulou and Niki Syrou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 178; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026178 - 6 Sep 2023

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1112

Abstract

Public health is currently facing several difficulties. The global impact of climate change is intensifying. Consequently, several problems have developed regarding human health and water resources. Globally, natural water resources are frequently insufficient and cannot keep up with the rising demand of at [...] Read more.

Public health is currently facing several difficulties. The global impact of climate change is intensifying. Consequently, several problems have developed regarding human health and water resources. Globally, natural water resources are frequently insufficient and cannot keep up with the rising demand of at least the previous 50 years. Research should choose targets perspicaciously in order to thoroughly detect and examine emerging water resources issues, which have developed owing to both human involvement and climate change. Water management is a matter of great contention. With water resources already universally in jeopardy, their control will have tremendous consequences for public health. In view of the fact that humanity is going through the post-pandemic era, or even the emergence of a new pandemic, it is vital that water resources along with climate change be assessed to determine the magnitude of the threat they pose to public health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 3431 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Investigating the Impact of Cycling Aging on the Long-Term Performance of RES-Driven, Second-Life EV Battery Storage Configurations in Residential-Scale Applications

by Angelos Kaldellis, Konstantinos Christopoulos, Panagiotis Triantafyllopoulos, Georgios Spyropoulos, Kosmas Kavadias and Dimitrios Zafirakis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 179; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026179 - 7 Sep 2023

Viewed by 716

Abstract

Battery storage is nowadays considered a key component not only in off-grid applications but also in the context of grid-tied, residential-scale systems, facilitating the broader use of RES even in heavily congested distribution grids. Since batteries normally comprise the costliest part in similar [...] Read more.

Battery storage is nowadays considered a key component not only in off-grid applications but also in the context of grid-tied, residential-scale systems, facilitating the broader use of RES even in heavily congested distribution grids. Since batteries normally comprise the costliest part in similar configurations, their optimal sizing is a priority. Informed decisions to that end should not be limited to rough, initial-cost estimations alone; instead, they should also take into account the life-cycle costs of batteries, which, in turn, relate to battery aging mechanisms and the gradual, cycling-based fading of the batteries’ useful capacity. Acknowledging the above, the impact of battery cycling aging on the performance of typical, residential-scale, RES-based battery storage configurations is investigated herein, considering also the utilization of second-life lithium-ion EV batteries. To that end, we used a literature-informed empirical aging model and performed a simulation exercise for a broad set of different RES-battery configurations, with our results indicating the importance of the aging factor while also designating areas of optimum sizing with regard to the long-term energy and economic performance of similar solutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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4 pages, 966 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

StratoFIRE: Modeling Wildfire Smoke in the Stratosphere

by Stergios Misios, Andreas Chrysanthou, Kostas Tsigaridis and Vassilis Amiridis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 180; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026180 - 7 Sep 2023

Viewed by 705

Abstract

The most extreme manifestation of a fire–weather interaction is the formation of pyrocumulonimbus (pyroCb) thunderstorms, triggered by super-heated updrafts, which can eject smoke at altitudes exceeding 20 Km. In this study, we investigated climate-related impacts from the most intensive pyroCb-triggered injection of smoke [...] Read more.

The most extreme manifestation of a fire–weather interaction is the formation of pyrocumulonimbus (pyroCb) thunderstorms, triggered by super-heated updrafts, which can eject smoke at altitudes exceeding 20 Km. In this study, we investigated climate-related impacts from the most intensive pyroCb-triggered injection of smoke in the stratosphere: the Australian New Year wildfires in 2019/2020. We first provide a general overview of the vision and objectives of the StratoFIRE project. With the aid of the global chemistry-climate model EMAC, we then simulate radiative and chemical perturbations in the stratosphere in relation to 0.9 Tg smoke in the stratosphere assuming different injection heights, from 13 to 16 Km. The simulation of stratospheric optical depth perturbations were found to be sensitive to the assumed injection height, with a maximum height at 16 Km showing the best agreement with the GLOSSAC and SAGE-ISS aerosol extinction observations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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8 pages, 21697 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluation of a Commercial Aerosol Lidar Scanner for Urban Pollution Monitoring

by Vassilis Kostopoulos, Ourania Soupiona, Georgios Georgoussis, Thanasis Georgiou, Anna Kampouri, Eleni Drakaki and Vasilis Amiridis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 181; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026181 - 7 Sep 2023

Viewed by 916

Abstract

Remote sensing of particulate matter (PM) absolute concentration levels can address the need for continuous wide-area monitoring in urban environments, which arises from the adverse effects of air pollution on human health. Raymetrics PMeye is a unique aerosol monitoring system designed around [...] Read more.

Remote sensing of particulate matter (PM) absolute concentration levels can address the need for continuous wide-area monitoring in urban environments, which arises from the adverse effects of air pollution on human health. Raymetrics PMeye is a unique aerosol monitoring system designed around a state-of-the-art polarization scanning UV lidar that offers large-area PM concentration monitoring and high spatial resolution source localization. The PMeye lidar employs a novel inversion scheme for converting raw lidar signals to PM concentrations. This study demonstrates the effectiveness and accuracy of remote monitoring PM concentration measurement results in the region of Attica, Greece. Potential synergistic use with inversion modeling techniques and dispersion models to support an advanced warning system for the population and local authorities of the Athens metropolitan area is also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 3221 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Self-Consumption and Market Integration Balance Analysis for RES–Battery Electricity Prosumers in Greece

by Konstantinos Christopoulos, Iliana Stefanidi, Kosmas Kavadias and Dimitrios Zafirakis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026182 - 7 Sep 2023

Viewed by 669

Abstract

Increased interest is demonstrated recently in the emergence of prosumer schemes for the residential sector on the basis of combined RES and storage configurations. Primarily, such schemes aim to increase energy autonomy for end users. Despite providing an alternative supply solution that may [...] Read more.

Increased interest is demonstrated recently in the emergence of prosumer schemes for the residential sector on the basis of combined RES and storage configurations. Primarily, such schemes aim to increase energy autonomy for end users. Despite providing an alternative supply solution that may secure end users from volatile energy prices, RES–battery configurations also suggest costly and, in most cases, capital-intensive solutions. As such, exploring the generation of additional revenue through market participation is an exercise worth undertaking, noting at the same time that decongestion management services may also be provided to the local grid. In this context, the current study introduces an operational framework for the market participation of RES–battery prosumer schemes, seeking to determine the optimal balance between self-consumption and market integration. For that purpose, we use typical demand patterns and perform an extensive parametrical analysis concerning system size, spot price levels and degree of market integration in the context of the Greek electricity market, with our results indicating areas of optimum balance for the minimization of similar schemes’ levelized cost of electricity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 6451 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Water Quality and Energy Consumption in Peri-Urban Agriculture: Lessons Learnt from a Real Case Study in a Municipality Close to Athens

by Dionysia Santi, Christiana M. Papapostolou and Panagiotis Ktenidis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 183; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026183 - 7 Sep 2023

Viewed by 873

Abstract

The constant increase in urban population has resulted in, among others, increased food demand. Peri-urban areas are “transition zones from rural to urban land-uses located between the outer limits of urban and regional centres and the rural environment”. The local agriculture businesses and [...] Read more.

The constant increase in urban population has resulted in, among others, increased food demand. Peri-urban areas are “transition zones from rural to urban land-uses located between the outer limits of urban and regional centres and the rural environment”. The local agriculture businesses and farmers are expected to be considerably mobilised in order to deal with the food security issues. Peri-urban areas could offer a viable solution for supplying the cities, as they can offer food at reasonable prices due to their proximity to the cities, which allows logistics and the related food supply chain to smoothly operate. However, cropping intensification is directly linked to increased energy and water needs, which, in some cases, comes as the result of unsustainable practices as well. Water, energy and food are closely interrelated within the nexus concept (Water–Energy–Food Nexus); water is needed for irrigating crops, energy for irrigation, etc. Fortunately, technological evolution can improve the current situation; for example, precision irrigation can help with the water issue by supplying the plant with water (and nutrients) at the right time, and renewable energy projects, i.e., solar panels, can provide a sustainable resolution to the energy supply problem. Nevertheless, modern farmers face two problems: often lack knowledge regarding these issues and the have to find water of good quality to supply their plantations. This paper aims to address these issues through a real-case study in a peri-urban, agricultural area close to Athens. The application of precision irrigation in local agricultural production is presented and the results will evidence how the farming community of the Greek municipality can benefit. Data collection concerning water quality and quantity, the types of crops cultivated, and the energy consumed per hectare are collected in order to allow the transition to more sustainable agricultural practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 782 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Smart Integrated Platform for Leakage Detection in the Water Supply Network of Aigio, Greece

by Angelos Chasiotis, Dimitrios Piromalis, Panagiotis Papageorgas, Stefanos Chasiotis, Maria Bousdeki, Panagiotis T. Nastos and Elissavet Feloni

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 184; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026184 - 7 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1040

Abstract

Water leakages in urban water supply networks are a major cause of non-revenue water (NRW) and pose significant challenges for water management. To address this issue, the Municipal Enterprise for Water and Wastewater of Aigialeia (DEYA Aigialeias), the Institutionalized Research Laboratory of Smart [...] Read more.

Water leakages in urban water supply networks are a major cause of non-revenue water (NRW) and pose significant challenges for water management. To address this issue, the Municipal Enterprise for Water and Wastewater of Aigialeia (DEYA Aigialeias), the Institutionalized Research Laboratory of Smart Technologies, Renewable Energy Sources and Quality of UNIWA (STRESQ), and the Laboratory of Climatology and Atmospheric Environment (LACAE, NKUA) are collaborating on a project titled “Smart system for Leak Detection for water supply Network of Aigio”. By installing sensors and implementing a SCADA system with PLC controllers, critical parameters such as water supply, pressure, and quality will be monitored. This project aims to reduce water leakage, which currently accounts for approximately 48% of the town’s total water supply, ultimately saving around 600,000 m³ of water annually. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 1565 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Design of a Smart Early Warning Hydrometeorological System: The Easy Project in Ermionida

by Angelos Chasiotis, Stefanos Chasiotis, Christos Theodorakis, Maria Bousdeki, Elissavet Feloni and Panagiotis T. Nastos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026185 - 8 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1101

Abstract

Climate change is linked to a higher risk of hydrometeorological disasters, which are driven by both the increased global surface temperature, which leads to more frequent droughts, and heavy rainfall events inducing floods. The Municipality of Ermionida is a dry area in Greece [...] Read more.

Climate change is linked to a higher risk of hydrometeorological disasters, which are driven by both the increased global surface temperature, which leads to more frequent droughts, and heavy rainfall events inducing floods. The Municipality of Ermionida is a dry area in Greece facing flash flood events, mainly during the autumn and early winter period. To address this, the Municipal Enterprise for Water and Wastewater of Ermionida (DEYA.ER) and the Laboratory of Climatology and Atmospheric (LACAE) of NKUA are collaborating on a project entitled “Design of a smart early warning hydrometeorological system (EASY)”. The project aims to develop an integrated local-scale forecasting system for flood awareness and, ultimately, for protection purposes. In the context of EASY, an online tool for data processing is provided, including hydrometric and meteorological monitoring, and it is a user-friendly platform that allows real-time access to data and enables the capability of designing specific diagrams according to the parameter and station. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 2679 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Fire Weather Assessment of Future Changes in Fire Weather Conditions in the Attica Region

by Nadia Politi, Diamando Vlachogiannis, Athanasios Sfetsos and Nikolaos Gounaris

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 186; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026186 - 11 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 803

Abstract

Under the framework of the European project “FirEUrisk”, the present work aimed to spatially assess the climate change signal of fire weather danger in the Attica region at a high resolution of 5 km. For this purpose, a methodology was applied to investigate [...] Read more.

Under the framework of the European project “FirEUrisk”, the present work aimed to spatially assess the climate change signal of fire weather danger in the Attica region at a high resolution of 5 km. For this purpose, a methodology was applied to investigate the projected changes in fire weather conditions under two emission scenarios and two future periods. The fire weather assessment was based on the fire weather index system and other related indices. The calculated indices were derived from high-resolution validated simulations. Large increases in FWI90 were observed during all periods and under both emission scenarios, mainly in the eastern parts. It is estimated that the northeastern parts will encounter more than 70 days of extreme fire weather, which corresponds to a future change of an increase of more than 45 days compared to the historical period. A change of more than 50% in the ISI will be observed in almost the entire region in the near future under RCP4.5, while this change is restricted mostly to the eastern Attica region under RCP8.5 in both periods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 1437 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Inversion Techniques on Etna’s Volcanic Emissions and the Impact of Aeolus on Quantitative Dispersion Modeling

by Anna Kampouri, Vassilis Amiridis, Thanasis Georgiou, Stavros Solomos, Ioannis Binietoglou, Anna Gialitaki, Eleni Marinou, Antonis Gkikas, Emmanouil Proestakis, Michael Rennie, Angela Benedetti, Simona Scollo, Lucia Mona, Nikolaos Papagiannopoulos and Prodromos Zanis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026187 - 11 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 668

Abstract

Forecasting volcanic ash transport is crucial for aviation, but its accuracy is subject to both the prevailing wind fields and the knowledge of the source term of the eruption, i.e., variation of emission rate and column height with time. In this study, we [...] Read more.

Forecasting volcanic ash transport is crucial for aviation, but its accuracy is subject to both the prevailing wind fields and the knowledge of the source term of the eruption, i.e., variation of emission rate and column height with time. In this study, we use data from the high spectral resolution lidar (HSRL) in space, Aeolus, to examine their impact on the estimation of the emission rates of volcanic particles through inversion techniques. For the inverse modelling, we couple the output of the FLEXPART Lagrangian particle dispersion model with lidar observations towards estimating the emission rates of volcanic particles released from an Etna eruption. The case study used here is the Etna eruption on the 12 March 2021, well captured by the ground-based lidar station of the PANGEA observatory located at the remote island of Antikythera in Greece, downwind of the Etna volcano. It is concluded that the inversion algorithm with Aeolus wind fields assimilation optimizes both the vertical emission distribution and the Etna emission rates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 2237 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Sentinel-5P/TROPOspheric Monitoring Instrument CH₄ and CO Total Column Validation over the Thessaloniki Collaborative Carbon Column Observing Network Site, Greece

by Marios Mermigkas, Chrysanthi Topaloglou, Maria-Elissavet Koukouli, Dimitrios Balis, Frank Hase, Darko Dubravica, Tobias Borsdorff and Alba Lorente

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026188 - 12 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1248

Abstract

Carbon monoxide, XCO, and methane, XCH₄, column-averaged dry-air mole fractions (DMFs), observed by the TROPOspheric Monitoring Instrument (TROPOMI) on board Sentinel-5P (S-5P), are validated against those obtained from a Bruker ground-based low-resolution Fourier transform spectrometer, EM27/SUN, operating in the framework and [...] Read more.

Carbon monoxide, XCO, and methane, XCH₄, column-averaged dry-air mole fractions (DMFs), observed by the TROPOspheric Monitoring Instrument (TROPOMI) on board Sentinel-5P (S-5P), are validated against those obtained from a Bruker ground-based low-resolution Fourier transform spectrometer, EM27/SUN, operating in the framework and according to requirements of the Collaborative Carbon Column Observing Network (COCCON), in Thessaloniki, Greece, on a mid-latitude urban site. The current operational S5P/TROPOMI observations show very good agreement with the respective FTIR measurements and capture both their seasonal variability and pollution episodes. XCO reported the highest concentrations during the fire episodes in summer 2021, when its daily mean value reached a maximum of 0.134 ± 0.015 ppm. XCH₄ shows a slight annual increase of 0.02 ppm, with the highest concentrations during early 2022 (approximately 1.92 ppm). The satellite CH₄ and CO products have been recently reprocessed with updated CH₄, CO and H₂O cross-sections, among other improvements, bringing noticeable changes in the pre-existing biases of S5P products against the FTIR ground-based data. We report that, for this mid-latitude station, mean biases and standard deviations fall well within mission requirements for XCH₄ and XCO (−0.01 ± 0.6% and 0.62 ± 4.2% for XCH₄ and XCO, respectively), underlying the significance of satellite measurements as a valuable supplement to ground-based data for the purpose of greenhouse gas monitoring. The results presented in this work for the Thessaloniki FTIR instrument are in strong agreement with FTIR locations in the middle latitudes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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8 pages, 7061 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Smoke Dispersion from Forest Fire Combustion Products—Implementation at Strategic, Tactical and Operational Level

by Nikolaos Iliopoulos, Michail Chalaris, Stavros Solomos, Charalampos Kontoes, Nikolaos Bartsotas, Alexandros Malounis, Vassilis Amiridis, Eleni Marinou, Konstantinos Eleftheratos, Nikolaos Mihalopoulos, Evangelos Gerasopoulos and Christos Zerefos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 189; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026189 - 12 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 918

Abstract

An increase in the frequency of wildfire occurrence is predicted in all climate model estimates, implying significant health impacts, due to the emission of combustion products. Application of pollutant dispersion models at strategic and operational levels is imperative for safety reasons and for [...] Read more.

An increase in the frequency of wildfire occurrence is predicted in all climate model estimates, implying significant health impacts, due to the emission of combustion products. Application of pollutant dispersion models at strategic and operational levels is imperative for safety reasons and for compliance with European Civil Protection Mechanism policies. Here, we describe the dispersion of smoke from the forest fire of Penteli-Attica (Greece) on 19 July 2022, which burnt a total area of 2781.7 hectares. High-resolution dispersion simulations, air-quality measurements, and remote sensing observations are used to describe the transport of smoke and facilitate effective smoke control in areas where air quality impacts are likely to be significant. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 468 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Dust Optical and Microphysical Properties of Saharan and Saudi Arabian Deserts Distributed in Europe Based on AERONET Data Products

by Elina Giannakaki, Eirini Verykiou, Eftychia Vasileiou and Mika Komppula

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 190; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026190 - 12 Sep 2023

Viewed by 999

Abstract

This study investigates the spatial distribution of optical and microphysical dust properties in Europe and possible differences between the Saharan and Saudi Arabian deserts’ dust particles based on the AERONET network. Data were collected within the period from 2001 to 2018 from 16 [...] Read more.

This study investigates the spatial distribution of optical and microphysical dust properties in Europe and possible differences between the Saharan and Saudi Arabian deserts’ dust particles based on the AERONET network. Data were collected within the period from 2001 to 2018 from 16 different stations. Pure dust conditions were identified. The Saudi Arabian lidar ratio (at 440 nm) was determined to be 53 ± 7 sr, much lower than the Saharan lidar ratio at the same wavelength, which was found to be 66 ± 10 sr. Particle depolarization ratio values at 440 nm were similar for both regions. Although our findings are consistent with earlier studies based on AERONET products, they do not agree with lidar observations. We found significantly larger lidar ratios at 440 nm both for Arabian dust (difference of 15 sr) and Saharan dust (difference of 13 sr) compared to lidar observations. These differences are smaller at 532 nm. Differences at both 440 and 532 nm between AERONET and lidar observations were on the order of 5 sr for Arabian dust and even smaller (order of 2 sr) for Saharan dust. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 873 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Wind Energy Calculations of a 15 MW Floating Wind Turbine System in the Mediterranean Sea

by Thomas P. Mazarakos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 191; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026191 - 15 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1471

Abstract

This study examines how a floating wind turbine responds to irregular waves. It gives a detailed explanation of the floating body’s geometrical features as well as the outcomes in terms of the incident waves. A discussion of the system’s modeling in detail is [...] Read more.

This study examines how a floating wind turbine responds to irregular waves. It gives a detailed explanation of the floating body’s geometrical features as well as the outcomes in terms of the incident waves. A discussion of the system’s modeling in detail is followed by the presentation of numerical results in the frequency domain. The floating structure, which is exposed to the action of regular and irregular waves in finite-depth waters, encompasses a semi-submersible offshore floating structure, moored with conventional catenary mooring lines, supporting a 15 MW Wind Turbine. The analysis’s objective is to determine which sea states produce the significant and maximum first-order forces of the offshore structure, due to operating wave conditions, obtained through wave hindcast time series in the Mediterranean Sea. Finally, the annual energy output of the 15 MW Wind Turbine is presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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4 pages, 4457 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Extreme Weather Affecting Sea Chlorophyll: The Case of a Medicane

by Dionysia Kotta

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 192; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026192 - 15 Sep 2023

Viewed by 647

Abstract

Sea surface chlorophyll concentrations are indicative of phytoplankton growth and can be impacted by extreme weather events. Hurricanes and typhoons have been widely studied for such an influence on the marine environment; chlorophyll increases and even phytoplankton blooms have been reported. In this [...] Read more.

Sea surface chlorophyll concentrations are indicative of phytoplankton growth and can be impacted by extreme weather events. Hurricanes and typhoons have been widely studied for such an influence on the marine environment; chlorophyll increases and even phytoplankton blooms have been reported. In this study, a tropical-like Mediterranean cyclone, the medicane Ianos of September 2020, that affected a large oligotrophic area of the Ionian Sea, is examined from this perspective. A numerical model and satellite data were used for delineating the study area and assessing chlorophyll variations, respectively. On a smaller geographical scale in respect to tropical cyclones, the medicane-triggered chlorophyll increases comparable to those of hurricanes when affecting oligotrophic open sea waters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 399 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Utilizing AEOLUS to Improve Dust Transport Modelling

by Thanasis Georgiou, Konstantinos Rizos, Athanasios Tsikerdekis, Emmanouil Proestakis, Antonis Gkikas, Holger Baars, Athena Augusta Floutsi, Eleni Drakaki, Anna Kampouri, Eleni Marinou, Dave Donovan, Angela Benedetti, Will McLean, Christian Retscher, Dimitrios Melas and Vassilis Amiridis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 193; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026193 - 15 Sep 2023

Viewed by 775

Abstract

The European Space Agency’s AEOLUS mission provides vertical profiles of the horizontal line-of-sight (HLOS) wind component in the troposphere and lower stratosphere, as well as secondary products with retrievals of extinction and backscatter coefficients. Under the scope of the ESA L2A+ project, we [...] Read more.

The European Space Agency’s AEOLUS mission provides vertical profiles of the horizontal line-of-sight (HLOS) wind component in the troposphere and lower stratosphere, as well as secondary products with retrievals of extinction and backscatter coefficients. Under the scope of the ESA L2A+ project, we present an assimilation system of both wind and aerosol information from AEOLUS in a regional numerical weather prediction model (WRF). This study aims to highlight the impact of such a dataset on desert dust transport through assimilation experiments over the broader North Atlantic Ocean region, which features high dust transport events through the Saharan Air Layer. The results will be validated through comparisons with observations from the ESA-ASKOS/JATAC experiments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 3231 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluation of CloudSat Products with ACTRIS Lidar/Radar Measurements over the Eastern Mediterranean

by Kalliopi A. Voudouri, Eleni Marinou, Iliana Koutsoupi, Maria-Elissavet Koukouli, Ioanna Tsikoudi, Alessandro Battaglia and Pavlos Kollias

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 194; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026194 - 15 Sep 2023

Viewed by 832

Abstract

In this study, we evaluate NASA CloudSat products using ground-based measurements performed in the framework of the Aerosol, Clouds, and Trace Gases Research Infrastructure (ACTRIS). Combined ground-based lidar–radar observations performed in the framework of the PRE-TECT experiment during April 2017 at the Greek [...] Read more.

In this study, we evaluate NASA CloudSat products using ground-based measurements performed in the framework of the Aerosol, Clouds, and Trace Gases Research Infrastructure (ACTRIS). Combined ground-based lidar–radar observations performed in the framework of the PRE-TECT experiment during April 2017 at the Greek Atmospheric Observatory in Finokalia, Greece (35.338° N, 25.670° E, 250 m asl) are used to evaluate the CloudSat performance in detecting hydrometeors. A case study with a persistent thin high layer, mostly consisting of aspherical particles, is presented here. CloudSat CPR (Cloud Profiling Radar) observations detect the hydrometeor layer with a top higher than that detected by the collocated ground-based cloud Doppler radar system (9.0 vs. 8.4 km) and a base higher than that detected by the lidar system (7.1 vs. 6.5 km). The outcome of this work is a step towards the use of CloudSat products for performing a decade-long cloud statistical analysis over the poorly studied East Mediterranean region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 3265 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Analysis of the January 2017 Cold Spell in Greece and Its Implications on Human Health

by Effie Kostopoulou

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 195; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026195 - 15 Sep 2023

Viewed by 683

Abstract

Human-caused climate change is linked to changes in some types of climate extremes such as high- and low-temperature extremes. Extreme temperature poses risks to several sectors of society and, more importantly, on human health. In Europe, the population affected by high temperatures is [...] Read more.

Human-caused climate change is linked to changes in some types of climate extremes such as high- and low-temperature extremes. Extreme temperature poses risks to several sectors of society and, more importantly, on human health. In Europe, the population affected by high temperatures is expected to increase as opposed to the number of people exposed to cold weather. Nevertheless, cold-related mortality is an important public health problem across Europe, and in southern (warmer) areas, the impact of low temperatures is higher. In this study, we analyzed mortality data from three Greek regions and investigated potential effects of the January 2017 cold spell on mortality attributed to cardiovascular disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 2874 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Bioclimatic Change Impacts on Tourist Destinations in the Mediterranean, by Means of the Assessment of Human Thermal Perception

by Panagiotis T. Nastos, Iliana D. Polychroni, John Kapsomenakis, Stavros Solomos and Christos S. Zerefos

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 196; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026196 - 18 Sep 2023

Viewed by 706

Abstract

The aim of this research is to elucidate the projected bioclimatic conditions in the Mediterranean during midday and evening periods for both the near and far future under the representative concentration pathways, RCP4.5 (intermediate) and RCP8.5 (extreme). This analysis focuses on twenty pivotal [...] Read more.

The aim of this research is to elucidate the projected bioclimatic conditions in the Mediterranean during midday and evening periods for both the near and far future under the representative concentration pathways, RCP4.5 (intermediate) and RCP8.5 (extreme). This analysis focuses on twenty pivotal tourist destinations, including Madrid, Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Nice, Tunis, Rome, Malta, Dubrovnik, Corfu, Methoni, Chalkidiki, Athens, Heraklion, Naxos, Rhodes, Istanbul, Alexandria, Antalya, Cairo, and Limassol. To quantify the current and projected bioclimatic conditions, the study employs the physiologically equivalent temperature (PET), which is based on the human energy balance. While the Mediterranean region is recognized as a hot spot for climate change, the distinctive bioclimatic patterns of individual locations are anticipated to exhibit notable variations, with consequential implications on tourism activities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1565 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

How Do Aerosol Influence Cloud Formation and Evolution?

by Rodanthi-Elisavet Mamouri, Albert Ansmann, Argyro Nisantzi, Dragoş Ene and Diofantos Gl. Hadjimitsis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 197; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026197 - 19 Sep 2023

Viewed by 810

Abstract

The remote sensing ground-based platform for atmospheric research hosted by the ERATOSTHENES Centre of Excellence will be the key research infrastructure of the Cyprus Atmospheric Remote Sensing Observatory (CARO) in Limassol, Cyprus. Between the 27th of October to the 1st of November 2020, [...] Read more.

The remote sensing ground-based platform for atmospheric research hosted by the ERATOSTHENES Centre of Excellence will be the key research infrastructure of the Cyprus Atmospheric Remote Sensing Observatory (CARO) in Limassol, Cyprus. Between the 27th of October to the 1st of November 2020, the lidar system observed a pronounced and well-aged stratospheric aerosol layer with a backscatter maximum around 10 km asl and clear wildfire smoke signatures. The observed smoke plume was caused by extreme wildfires on the west coast of the U.S. Long-range aerosol transport events observed over Limassol are used for the study of the influence of organic aerosol particles (serving as ice-nucleating particles, INPs) in a cirrus formation in the upper troposphere. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 2898 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Methods of Identification Coherent Structures in Atmospheric Numerical Data

by Vasilisa Koshkina, Alexander Gavrikov and Mikhail Krinitskiy

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 198; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026198 - 20 Sep 2023

Viewed by 999

Abstract

Coherent structures (CS), or vortices, are playing an important role in Earth’s climate system, since they are responsible for a significant part in the momentum, heat, mass, etc., transportation of any fluid, including the atmosphere and the ocean. This is true for all [...] Read more.

Coherent structures (CS), or vortices, are playing an important role in Earth’s climate system, since they are responsible for a significant part in the momentum, heat, mass, etc., transportation of any fluid, including the atmosphere and the ocean. This is true for all scales of motion, but it is especially important for more chaotic mesoscale structures. Automatic identification of CS has the potential to enable automatic categorization of mesoscale vortices and the development of a general mesoscale climatology. Currently, there is no objective definition of a vortex, mainly due to difficulties in determining its outer boundary. Despite this challenge, recent developments in atmospheric turbulent dynamics have attempted to address this issue. In this study, we examined the implementation of three most popular Eulerian methods for identifying CSs in mesoscale-resolving gridded data. Our primary objective was to determine the most effective method for vortex identification on a scale relevant to Earth science data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 589 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Hybrid Extended Kalman Filter Based on a Parametrized FeedForward Neural Network for the Improvement of the Results of Numerical Wave Prediction Models

by Athanasios Donas, George Galanis and Ioannis Th. Famelis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 199; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026199 - 20 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 899

Abstract

Aiming to develop a novel optimization model for numerical weather and wave predictions, this study proposes a hybrid approach based on the combination of Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) and Kalman Filters (KFs). The KF technique uses fixed covariance matrices, which is inappropriate for [...] Read more.

Aiming to develop a novel optimization model for numerical weather and wave predictions, this study proposes a hybrid approach based on the combination of Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) and Kalman Filters (KFs). The KF technique uses fixed covariance matrices, which is inappropriate for dynamic conditions where the measurement error varies due to outside factors. This work proposes an alternative method for updating the covariance matrices, depending on a selected parameter that was obtained from a parametrized FeedForward Neural Network. The FeedForward Neural Network is trained for various values of the parameter for a set of historical data to provide the best choice based on a predetermined objective. Following this procedure, the parameter is added to the hybrid Extended Kalman Filter, which improves the direct outputs of numerical forecasts by decoding the systematic error between the model’s direct output and the corresponding observations. The suggested approach was used in a number of time periods in various locations with very promising results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 4961 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

An Overview of the ASKOS Campaign in Cabo Verde

by Eleni Marinou, Peristera Paschou, Ioanna Tsikoudi, Alexandra Tsekeri, Vasiliki Daskalopoulou, Dimitra Kouklaki, Nikos Siomos, Vasileios Spanakis-Misirlis, Kalliopi Artemis Voudouri, Thanasis Georgiou, Eleni Drakaki, Anna Kampouri, Kyriaki Papachristopoulou, Ioanna Mavropoulou, Sotiris Mallios, Emmanouil Proestakis, Antonis Gkikas, Iliana Koutsoupi, Ioannis Panagiotis Raptis, Stelios Kazadzis, Holger Baars, Athina Floutsi, Razvan Pirloaga, Anca Nemuc, Franco Marenco, Maria Kezoudi, Alkistis Papetta, Grisa Močnik, Jesús Yus Díez, Claire L. Ryder, Natalie Ratcliffe, Konrad Kandler, Aryasree Sudharaj and Vassilis Amiridis Show full author list Hide full author list

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 200; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026200 - 21 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1396

Abstract

In the framework of the ESA-NASA Joint Aeolus Tropical Atlantic Campaign (JATAC), the ASKOS experiment was implemented during the summer and autumn of 2021 and 2022. ASKOS comprised roughly 9 weeks of measurements in the Saharan dust outflow towards the North Atlantic, with [...] Read more.

In the framework of the ESA-NASA Joint Aeolus Tropical Atlantic Campaign (JATAC), the ASKOS experiment was implemented during the summer and autumn of 2021 and 2022. ASKOS comprised roughly 9 weeks of measurements in the Saharan dust outflow towards the North Atlantic, with operations conducted from the Cabo Verde Islands. Through its unprecedented dataset of synergistic measurements in the region, ASKOS will allow for the calibration and validation of the aerosol/cloud product from Aeolus and the preparation of the terrain for EarthCARE cal/val activities. Moreover, ASKOS marks a turning point in our ability to study Saharan dust properties and the processes affecting its atmospheric transport, as well as the link to other components of the Earth’s system, such as the effect of dust particles on cloud formation over the Eastern Atlantic and the effect of large and giant particles on radiation. This is possible through the synergy of diverse observations acquired during the experiment, which include intense 24/7 ground-based aerosol, cloud, wind, and radiation remote sensing measurements, and UAV-based aerosol in situ measurements within the Saharan air layer, up to 5.3 km altitude, offering particle size-distributions up to 40 μm as well as sample collection for mineralogical analysis. We provide an outline of the novel measurements along with the main scientific objectives of ASKOS. The campaign data will be publicly available by September of 2023 through the EVDC portal (ESA Validation Data Center). Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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5 pages, 2610 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Modeling the Air Pollution and Weather Feedback from Wildfire Emissions with WRF–Chem over Greece

by Anastasios Rovithakis and Apostolos Voulgarakis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 201; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026201 - 22 Sep 2023

Viewed by 986

Abstract

Wildfires stand as significant contributors to atmospheric aerosols, exerting a substantial influence on air quality and radiative forcing. In our research, we utilized the Weather Research and Forecasting model coupled with chemistry (WRF−Chem) to delve into the repercussions of wildfires on aerosol pollution [...] Read more.

Wildfires stand as significant contributors to atmospheric aerosols, exerting a substantial influence on air quality and radiative forcing. In our research, we utilized the Weather Research and Forecasting model coupled with chemistry (WRF−Chem) to delve into the repercussions of wildfires on aerosol pollution and meteorological interactions. Our study centered on Greece, serving as a poignant test case. We focus on the summer of 2021, a period marked by intense wildfire occurrences within the nation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 1011 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Seasonal and Long-Term Trends on Involuntary Mental Health Admissions in Attica, Greece

by Ioannis Rizavas, Rossetos Gournellis, Nikos Pantazis, Evdokia Missouridou, Kostas Lagouvardos and Athanasios Douzenis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 202; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026202 - 22 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1222

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess any seasonal and long-term trends on involuntary admissions. Seasonal pattern and long-term variation were examined statistically and analyzed using Poisson models with robust standard errors, including 1-year period Fourier terms and a linear time term. [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to assess any seasonal and long-term trends on involuntary admissions. Seasonal pattern and long-term variation were examined statistically and analyzed using Poisson models with robust standard errors, including 1-year period Fourier terms and a linear time term. Maximum (+6.5%) and minimum (−6.1%) within-year values were estimated to occur during mid-June and mid-December, respectively. Estimated long-term trend was more pronounced in the mental and behavioral disorders due to the use of drugs and organic mental disorder diagnoses groups and in the 16–29 and 65+ age groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 791 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Comparison of Cloud Parameters from GOME-2 and Assessment of Cloud Impact on Tropospheric NO₂ and HCHO Retrievals

by Athina Argyrouli, Ronny Lutz, Fabian Romahn, Víctor Molina García, Diego Loyola, Sora Seo, Pieter Valks, Isabelle De Smedt, Folkert Boersma, Lieuwe Gijsbert Tilstra, Piet Stammes and Steven Compernolle

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 203; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026203 - 25 Sep 2023

Viewed by 895

Abstract

In recent decades, there has been an increasing interest in making use of satellite measurements for identifying trends in atmospheric composition and climate. Instruments like GOME-2 and TROPOMI are dedicated to air-quality and global trace gas monitoring. For the accurate retrieval of columnar [...] Read more.

In recent decades, there has been an increasing interest in making use of satellite measurements for identifying trends in atmospheric composition and climate. Instruments like GOME-2 and TROPOMI are dedicated to air-quality and global trace gas monitoring. For the accurate retrieval of columnar information of the trace gases, cloud correction is necessary. This work is meant to examine the quality of the GOME-2 operational cloud product from AC SAF and to propose enhancements of the current dataset to improve the retrieval of the NO₂ and HCHO tropospheric gases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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8 pages, 12660 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Incipient Cyclone Stage of Medicane Ianos

by Anastasia Souvatzoglou, Effie Kostopoulou, Dimitris Brikas and Ioannis Pytharoulis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 204; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026204 - 22 Sep 2023

Viewed by 710

Abstract

Ianos originated from a shallow low in Libya, which formed on the tip of a warm tongue of Saharan air on 12 September 2020, a couple of days before its transformation to a Medicane. The genesis of the incipient cyclone was associated with [...] Read more.

Ianos originated from a shallow low in Libya, which formed on the tip of a warm tongue of Saharan air on 12 September 2020, a couple of days before its transformation to a Medicane. The genesis of the incipient cyclone was associated with strong warm air advection, across the Saharan low-level baroclinic zone, ahead of an amplifying thermal wave. On 13 September, when the baroclinic zone weakened, the upper levels played a significant role in the maintenance of the low. The relative position of the upper-level jet favoured downward cyclonic vorticity advection towards the cyclone, which apparently acted to reinforce the cyclonic circulation until the low entered the sea on 14 September 2020. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1281 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Cloud Types and Geometrical Properties Observed above PANGEA Observatory in the Eastern Mediterranean

by Iliana Koutsoupi, Eleni Marinou, Kalliopi Artemis Voudouri, Ioanna Tsikoudi, Peristera Paschou, Vassilis Amiridis, Alessandro Battaglia, Pavlos Kollias and Eleni Giannakaki

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 205; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026205 - 8 Oct 2023

Viewed by 733

Abstract

In this work, we utilize space-based radar products from CloudSat mission and provide statistics on the properties of the clouds observed above the PANGEA (PANhellenic GEophysical observatory of Antikythera) observatory, located in the Eastern Mediterranean. We found that the variable atmospheric conditions that [...] Read more.

In this work, we utilize space-based radar products from CloudSat mission and provide statistics on the properties of the clouds observed above the PANGEA (PANhellenic GEophysical observatory of Antikythera) observatory, located in the Eastern Mediterranean. We found that the variable atmospheric conditions that prevailed above the region in 2007–2017 resulted in complex cloud structures. From the clouds observed, 39.8% were low-level clouds formed at the top of the marine boundary layer (≤2 km), 34.2% were mid-level clouds (between 2–7 km), and 25.9% were high-level or deep convective clouds (between 7–15 km). Thin clouds (<1 km depth) are observed in 33% of the cases, while thick clouds (>6 km) in 15% of the cases. The results of this study can be used from regional and climate models to evaluate their cloud predictions and investigate the performance of different cloud microphysics schemes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 3356 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Contribution to the Study of the Vardaris Wind Regime of the Last 60 Years

by Vaitsa Dagkli, Ioannis Parasakis, Dimitris Brikas and Christos Sarras

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 206; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026206 - 9 Oct 2023

Viewed by 737

Abstract

Episodes of NNW-erly windstorms, known in the area of Balkan Peninsula as Vardaris, were identified, with the aid of wind archive data, from the Regional Meteorological Centre of Makedonia of the Hellenic National Meteorological Service of Greece. The study of the seasonal, interannual, [...] Read more.

Episodes of NNW-erly windstorms, known in the area of Balkan Peninsula as Vardaris, were identified, with the aid of wind archive data, from the Regional Meteorological Centre of Makedonia of the Hellenic National Meteorological Service of Greece. The study of the seasonal, interannual, and diurnal variations of the occurrence of Vardaris windstorms, as well as their intensity, shows that it is a severe, long-lasting, and mainly winter-time feature, usually commencing in the morning hours. Preliminary results of the study of dynamic features accompanying Vardaris have shown that these windstorms are almost totally associated with cold fronts coming from northern sectors. The presence of a northerly jet or a tropopause fold aloft contributes to increases in the intensity or duration of the windstorms. The connection of Vardaris with these dynamical features implies that the observed negative (positive) trends of the occurrence frequency/duration (intensity) of Vardaris windstorms is in accord with the scenario of climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 1134 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Renewable Energy Sources: Transition towards Sustainable Development through the Water–Energy–Food Approach

by Maria Margarita Bertsiou and Evangelos Baltas

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 207; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026207 - 12 Oct 2023

Viewed by 813

Abstract

The transition to renewable energy sources for a sustainable, low-carbon future is driven by the need for the mitigation of climate change. The integration of RES-based systems and storage units can deal with the intermittent nature of natural variables. The selection of storage [...] Read more.

The transition to renewable energy sources for a sustainable, low-carbon future is driven by the need for the mitigation of climate change. The integration of RES-based systems and storage units can deal with the intermittent nature of natural variables. The selection of storage technology is determined by various parameters related to space, topography and water resource availability. In the present study, two different storage methods, wind-powered pumped hydro storage and hydrogen fuel cells, are compared in terms of fulfillment energy and water demand of a small Aegean Sea island for the project’s 25-year lifespan. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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9 pages, 2226 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Clean-Green Decarbonization of Remote Islands: The GReco-Islands Concept

by John K. Kaldellis and Panagiotis Ktenidis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 208; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026208 - 16 Oct 2023

Viewed by 974

Abstract

Climate change due to extended fossil fuel utilization strongly affects islands all over the world. Greece has a large number of islands of various sizes. As far as the electrification status and the climate surcharge of Greek islands is concerned, the current work [...] Read more.

Climate change due to extended fossil fuel utilization strongly affects islands all over the world. Greece has a large number of islands of various sizes. As far as the electrification status and the climate surcharge of Greek islands is concerned, the current work is concentrated on the non-interconnected group of islands that cover their electricity demand on the basis of local oil-based thermal power stations. In this context, the EU-originated effort to drastically change the local electricity generation fuel mix was examined. More specifically, under the recent Territorial Just Transition Plan for the islands, a variety of actions is proposed in view of the “GReco-islands” initiative. Applying the proposed clean-green solution on a representative island (e.g., Patmos island), one may estimate the expected carbon dioxide emissions reduction. Finally, the necessary investments cost may be estimated due to the clean-green decarbonization actions implemented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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7 pages, 2516 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

An Integrated Optimum PV-Based Solution for Urban Households’ Energy Autonomy, including Clean Electro-Mobility

by Kleanthis Kaldellis, John Kalognomos and Angelos Kaldellis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 209; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026209 - 17 Oct 2023

Viewed by 812

Abstract

The main focus of this study is to optimize proposed solutions for a residential PV-based net-metering systems with the option of EV adaptation, utilizing a weighted grading system. Technical, environmental and financial parameters are assessed to develop a techno-economic and environmental evaluation model. [...] Read more.

The main focus of this study is to optimize proposed solutions for a residential PV-based net-metering systems with the option of EV adaptation, utilizing a weighted grading system. Technical, environmental and financial parameters are assessed to develop a techno-economic and environmental evaluation model. The proposed analysis investigates the electricity consumption of a typical household and possible energy-saving interventions. Solar PV installation scenarios and their combination with solar water heating and EV adaptation are evaluated in terms of sizing and financial sustainability, as well as CO₂ emissions reduction, along with the net-metering scheme. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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9 pages, 2035 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Optimization of a CHP Unit Operation on a University Campus for Carbon Dioxide Emission Minimization

by Kleanthis Kaldellis, Emmanouil Kostopoulos and John K. Kaldellis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 210; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026210 - 19 Oct 2023

Viewed by 809

Abstract

The current study examines an algorithmic solution for the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions resulting from the optimum energy demand coverage of a typical university campus via the contribution of an existing Combined Heat and Power (CHP) unit of 600 kW_e based [...] Read more.

The current study examines an algorithmic solution for the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions resulting from the optimum energy demand coverage of a typical university campus via the contribution of an existing Combined Heat and Power (CHP) unit of 600 kW_e based on natural gas utilization. The application results of the proposed algorithm for the UNIWA Ancient Grove Campus suggest an optimal operation plan for the corresponding CHP unit and achieve a carbon dioxide emission reduction by almost 55% on an annual basis. In this context, the proposed innovative solution may be equally well applied on several other university campuses with similar positive results for the environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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6 pages, 19169 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Heavy Metal Load in Airborne Magnetic Particles from Anthropogenic Activities in a Contaminated Area in Northern Greece and Their Environmental Impact

by Chrysoula Chrysakopoulou, Dimitrios Vogiatzis, Alexandros Drakoulis, Lambrini Papadopoulou and Nikolaos Kantiranis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 212; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026212 - 27 Nov 2023

Viewed by 899

Abstract

Magnetic particles were separated from soil and sediment samples from the Sarigiol basin. The sources of their highest values are ophiolite complexes and fly ash dispersion while magnetite is the dominant mineral. Ιron is the dominant element of magnetic particles and minor amounts [...] Read more.

Magnetic particles were separated from soil and sediment samples from the Sarigiol basin. The sources of their highest values are ophiolite complexes and fly ash dispersion while magnetite is the dominant mineral. Ιron is the dominant element of magnetic particles and minor amounts of Mn, Ti and Cr are presented in anthropogenic magnetic particles. The highest values of iron load are shown near to a power station and close to the locations of the ophiolite complexes. Anthropogenic activities in the research area are responsible for the presence of anthropogenic magnetic particles in the upper horizons of the Sarigiol basin. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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4 pages, 2071 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Circulation Responses in the Southern Eastern Mediterranean to Large Volcanic Eruptions: The Katmai Eruption

by Stergios Misios and Vassilis Amiridis

Environ. Sci. Proc. 2023, 26(1), 221; https://doi.org/10.3390/environsciproc2023026211 - 24 Oct 2023

Viewed by 723

Abstract

The Etesian winds characterize the summertime circulation in the Eastern Mediterranean. Etesians are modulated by the Indian summer monsoon (ISM), but their response to other external forcings is not understood. Here, we investigate the response of Etesians to the Novarupta/Katmai 1912 volcanic eruption [...] Read more.

The Etesian winds characterize the summertime circulation in the Eastern Mediterranean. Etesians are modulated by the Indian summer monsoon (ISM), but their response to other external forcings is not understood. Here, we investigate the response of Etesians to the Novarupta/Katmai 1912 volcanic eruption with the aid of 20th Century reanalysis and station-based wind observations. We demonstrate a robust reduction in the total number of days with Etesian winds in July and August 1913. We also detect a strong cooling and weakened surface pressure gradients in the Eastern Mediterranean, which explains the decline in Etesian winds in the post-eruption summer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of 16th International Conference on Meteorology, Climatology and Atmospheric Physics—COMECAP 2023)

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