A modeling study of Aeolian erosion enhanced by surface wind confluences over Mexico City

Using wind erosion and air quality models, a study on the effect of PM10 from aeolian erosion episodes in Mexico City is presented. The important contribution of aeolian erosion on urban air quality, its genesis, morphology, location and regional implications such as the role played by surface confluences, the dry Lake of Texcoco and agricultural lands to the east and south-east of Mexico City is established. All analyzed episodes showed that wind erosion is a major cause of high PM10 concentrations in Mexico City.The wind erosion and air quality models used here provide useful computational tools to study the aeolian erosion phenomenon, its sources and impact on urban regions.