Applying Satellite-Based and Global Atmospheric Reanalysis Datasets to Simulate Sulphur Dioxide Plume Dispersion from Mount Nyamuragira 2006 Volcanic Eruption

Understanding the dispersion of volcanic sulphur dioxide (SO2) plumes is crucial for assessing their environmental and climatic impacts. This study integrates satellite-based and reanalysis datasets to simulate as well as visualise the dispersion patterns of volcanic SO2 under diverse atmospheric conditions. By incorporating data from the MERRA-2 (Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications, version 2), CALIPSO (Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations), and OMI (Ozone Monitoring Instrument) datasets, we are able to provide comprehensive insights into the vertical and horizontal trajectories of SO2 plumes. The methodology involves modelling SO2 dispersion across various atmospheric pressure surfaces, incorporating wind directions, wind speeds, and vertical column mass densities. This approach allows us to trace the evolution of SO2 plumes from their source through varying meteorological conditions, capturing detailed vertical distributions and plume paths. Combining these datasets allows for a comprehensive analysis of both natural and human-induced factors affecting SO2 dispersion. Visual and statistical interpretations in the paper reveal overall SO2 concentrations, first injection dates, and dissipation patterns detected across altitudes of up to ±20 km in the stratosphere. This work highlights the significance of combining satellite-based and global atmospheric reanalysis datasets to validate and enhance the accuracy of plume dispersion models while having a general agreement that OMI daily data and MERRA-2 reanalysis hourly data are capable of accurately accounting for SO2 plume dispersion patterns under varying meteorological conditions.