Transport and deposition of ocean-sourced microplastic particles by a North Atlantic hurricane

The atmosphere can transport large quantities of microplastics and disperse them throughout the globe to locations inaccessible by many other transport mechanisms. Meteorological events have been proven to pick up and transport particulate matter, however, how they influence the transport and deposition of atmospheric microplastics is still poorly understood. Here we present samples of atmospheric fallout collected during Hurricane Larry as it passed over Newfoundland, Canada in September 2021. During the storm peak, 1.13 x 105 particles m-2 day-1 were deposited, with a decline in deposition after the storm passed. Back-trajectory modelling and polymer type analysis indicate that those microplastics may have been ocean-sourced as the hurricane traversed the garbage patch of the North Atlantic Gyre. This study identifies the influence of North Atlantic hurricanes on the atmospheric transport and deposition of ocean-sourced microplastics and the possible consequences of increased exposure to microplastics in remote areas. Hurricane Larry deposited substantial amounts of microplastic particles over Newfoundland, Canada in 2021, probably derived from the garbage patch in the North Atlantic gyre, according to sample collection and analysis as well as back-trajectory modelling.

Automated summary

The study shows that North Atlantic hurricanes have an impact on the transport and deposition of ocean-sourced microplastics in the atmosphere. Hurricane Larry deposited substantial amounts of microplastic particles over Newfoundland, Canada in 2021.