Authors
Kristen Zuraski (CIRES,NOAA/CSL), Jeff Peischl (CIRES,NOAA/CSL), Wyndom Chace (CIRES,NOAA/CSL), Amanda Makowiecki (CIRES,NOAA/CSL), Ken Aikin (CIRES,NOAA/CSL), Alan Brewer (NOAA/CSL), Steven S. Brown (NOAA/CSL)

Abstract

The 2022 California Fire Dynamics Experiment (CalFiDE) campaign measured the near-plume chemistry and dynamics of wildfires in northern California and Oregon, regions marked by the increasing prevalence and impact of wildfires. Leveraging a dual approach, measurements aboard the NOAA Twin Otter aircraft included in-situ trace gas measurements of nitrogen oxides (NOx), reactive nitrogen, ozone (O3), and greenhouse gases alongside remote sensing measurements via a scanning Doppler lidar. One of the focuses of the CalFiDE campaign was the assessment of ozone production efficiencies in wildfires. By providing a metric and quantitative evaluation of the O3 yield per unit of emitted and oxidized NOx during the plume transects, the campaign aimed to unravel the dynamics of ozone sensitivity within and between different wildfire plumes. This work discerns the spatial and temporal variability of ozone production with the aim to understand the nuanced interplay of factors contributing to ozone formation in the context of wildfires. The results from this campaign contribute to our understanding of wildfire-atmosphere interactions, providing essential insights for addressing the challenges posed by escalating trend in the frequency and intensity of wildfire activity in these vulnerable regions.