Utilization of WRF-HYSPLIT Modelling Approach and GEMS to Identify PM2.5 Source in Central Kalimantan (Study Case : Forest Fire 2023)

Amalia Nurlatifah; Prawira Kombara; Alvin Pratama; Rizky Faristyawan; Aulia Rakhman; Nindia Noviastuti

Just Accepted

This article has been peer reviewed and accepted for publication. It is in production and has not been edited, so may differ from the final published form.

Utilization of WRF-HYSPLIT Modelling Approach and GEMS to Identify PM2.5 Source in Central Kalimantan (Study Case : Forest Fire 2023)

Amalia Nurlatifah , Prawira Kombara , Alvin Pratama, Rizky Faristyawan, Aulia Rakhman, Nindia Noviastuti

Abstract

Biomass burning is a significant source of particulate matter (PM), substantially contributing to elevated PM2.5 levels. Exposure to PM2.5 has been associated with various severe chronic illnesses. Therefore, it is crucial to address biomass burning occurrences, mitigate their impacts, and manage their consequences effectively. A key strategy for managing haze from biomass burning involves identifying the sources of haze, which facilitates the implementation of fire prevention and suppression measures. This study explores the sources and impacts of PM2.5 emissions from forest fires in Central Kalimantan in October 2023 using an integrated approach. We employed the WRF-HYSPLIT (Weather Research and Forecasting model coupled with the Hybrid Single Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory model) and satellite instruments, including the GEMS (Geostationary Environment Monitoring Spectrometer), MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer), and VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite), to identify PM2.5 sources and analyze their spatial distribution. Our analysis indicates that Palangka Raya experienced substantial impacts from multiple hotspot occurrences in October 4th 2023, particularly from the southeastern and eastern regions of Central Kalimantan and South Kalimantan. Conversely, Pangkalan Bun showed relatively lower PM2.5 concentrations ini October, 2nd 2024 due to prevailing sea winds. The majority of PM2.5 in Palangka Raya originated from the southeast, with a smaller contribution from the east. Geopotential height and topography analyses with wind plots suggested stable atmospheric conditions in Palangka Raya, while GEMS satellite data revealed high Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) values, indicating elevated PM2.5 concentrations. These findings underscore the importance of understanding local meteorological conditions and hotspot distributions for effective management and mitigation of forest fire impacts on air quality in Central Kalimantan.

ES24006 Accepted 05 December 2024