Impact of Severe Dust Storms on Air Quality Index (A case Study of Baghdad – Iraq)

This study assesses the impact of dust storms on the air quality index in Baghdad in 2022, by analyzing changes in fine particulate matter (PM 2.5 and PM 10 ) concentrations using data from the European Copernicus Program. PM 2.5 concentrations ranged between 27 and 247 μg/m 3 while PM 10 concentrations ranged between 48 and 386 μg/m 3 . The average PM 2.5 concentration was approximately 78 μg/m 3 while the average PM 10 concentration was approximately 113 μg/m 3 . Nine major severe dust storms were identified during 2022, and changes in air quality levels before, during, and after the storm were assessed. The results revealed a significant increase in particulate matter (PM 2.5 and PM 10 ) concentrations during the storms, exceeding the permissible limit according to World Health Organization standards. A 143% increase in air quality index (AQI) values was recorded, with the highest pollution levels occurring during the spring, specifically in May. This indicates a serious environmental and public health concern, as the data showed that AQI values ranged between 24 and 407. The study emphasized the seriousness of dust storms affecting air quality, particularly in urban areas. Finally, the dust storm of 16 May 2022 investigated and synoptically analyzed due to its significant increasing of PM 2.5 and PM 10 and deterioration the AQI of Baghdad city especially during the period of the dust storm, this underscores the need to strengthen and develop environmental monitoring systems and implement preventive measures to protect public health.