Smog is created by photochemical reactions of pollutants in the air. These reactions are more likely to occur and intensify at higher temperatures. In Los Angeles, for example, for example, for every degree Fahrenheit the temperature rises above 70°F, the incidence of smog increases by 3%.
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Higher ambient temperatures in heat islands also increase air conditioning energy use. As power plants burn more fossil fuels, they increase both pollution levels and energy costs. Link to: Energy Use |
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The impact of these pollution levels is seen in smog. The formation of smog is highly sensitive to temperatures; the higher the temperature, the higher the formation and, hence, the concentration of smog. In Los Angeles at temperatures below 70°F, the concentration of smog (measured as ozone) is below the national standard. At temperatures of about 95°F all days are smoggy. Cooling the city by about 5°F would have a dramatic impact on smog concentration. Link to: High Temperatures
As temperature rises, so does the likelihood that smog will exceed the national standard.
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