- GH23A-05: Hourly Satellite-Derived Ozone Dynamics Reveal Transboundary Pollution Patterns and Health Risks along the U.S.-Mexico Border
-
NOLA CC
Author(s):Generic 'disconnected' Message
Yun Hang, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (First Author)
Aodong Mei, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (Presenting Author)
Kari North, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Juan Aguilera, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Ground-level ozone is a harmful air pollutant that can irritate the lungs, worsen asthma, and increase the risk of heart and breathing problems. People living along the U.S.–Mexico border may be especially at risk because of fast-growing cities, hot and sunny weather, and limited access to healthcare in some communities. In this study, we used new satellite data from NASA’s TEMPO mission to track ozone levels every hour at a very fine scale (1 km). We focused on two major border regions: El Paso–Ciudad Juárez and Brownsville–Matamoros. By combining satellite observations with local weather data and maps of land use and population, we identified where and when ozone levels are highest. We found that ozone pollution in El Paso–Ciudad Juárez rises sharply in the early afternoon, partly due to regional wind patterns that carry pollutants across the border. In Brownsville–Matamoros, coastal winds help reduce ozone buildup. Many neighborhoods with limited resources, including colonias, are located in high-ozone areas. Our findings show how climate and weather affect ozone exposure in border communities. This research helps identify where people are most at risk and supports better planning to protect public health in areas facing environmental and social challenges.
Scientific DisciplineNeighborhoodType
Enter Note
Go to previous page in this tab
Session


