Characteristics of visibility and particulate matter (PM) in an urban area of Northeast China

The visibility data from 2010 to 2012 were obtained at Shenyang in Northeast China and the relations between visibility, PM mass concentration and meteorological variables were statistically analyzed. These results demonstrate that the monthly-averaged visibility over Shenyang was higher in March and September with values of approximately 19.0 +/- 4.3 km and 17.1 +/- 4.3 km, respectively. Low visibility over Shenyang occurred in January at approximately 11.0 +/- 4.7 km. Among the meteorological variables considered, wind speed was the main meteorological factor that influenced visibility and PM mass concentrations. The relation between visibility and PM indicates that fine particles are already a main source of pollutants, the existence of which is the most important factor in the deterioration of visibility in an urban area of Northeast China. The study also shows an obvious diurnal variation and weekend effects of visibility and PM, which are mainly caused by human activities. Results of this study highlight the significant impact of fine particles on air pollution and visibility in an urban area of Northeast China.