Evolution of air quality and its relationship with precipitation acidity in coastal areas of Veracruz (2020–2023): influence of meteorological factors
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1
Tecnológico Nacional de México/Instituto Tecnológico de Boca del Río, Carretera Veracruz - Córdoba Kilómetro 12, Boca del Río, Veracruz 94290, Mexico
2
Department of Chemical Engineering, Tecnológico Nacional de México, Veracruz Campus, Av. Miguel Ángel de Quevedo 2779, Veracruz, Mexico
3
Tecnológico Nacional de México/Instituto Tecnológico de Boca del Río, Carretera Veracruz - Córdoba Kilómetro 12, Boca del Río, Veracruz 94290,Mexico.
Corresponding author
MARIA DEL REFUGIO CASTAÑEDA CHÁVEZ
Tecnológico Nacional de México/Instituto Tecnológico de Boca del Río, Carretera Veracruz - Córdoba Kilómetro 12, Boca del Río, Veracruz 94290,Mexico.
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ABSTRACT
This study analyzes the evolution of air quality and its relationship with precipitation acidity in three coastal cities of Veracruz, Mexico (Xalapa, Veracruz, and Minatitlan) during the 2020–2023 period. The concentrations of sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and estimated rainwater pH were evaluated, considering meteorological variables such as temperature, precipitation, and wind speed and direction. The data were obtained through transparency platforms from SEDEMA and CONAGUA, and processed using statistical and geospatial analysis in QGIS. The results reveal a general downward trend in NOx in urban areas, while SO₂ levels remained stable or slightly increased in industrial zones. Significant correlations were identified between high SO₂ concentrations and low precipitation pH values, suggesting a persistent incidence of acid rain. This work highlights the importance of integrated atmospheric and meteorological monitoring for environmental management in coastal regions.