Spatiotemporal Variability and Complex Network Characteristics of Ozone Pollution in Anhui Province, China (2018– 2023)

Abstract This study investigates the spatiotemporal dynamics and intercity linkages of surface ozone pollution in Anhui Province, China, from 2018 to 2023. Daily mean concentrations from 16 prefecture-level cities were analyzed using statistical methods and complex network approaches. Ozone levels exhibited a fluctuating upward trend, with summer averages reaching 115 µg/m³ and winter values dropping to 72 µg/m³. Spatially, northern Anhui, represented by Bozhou with 109.66 µg/m³, formed pollution hotspots, whereas southern Anhui, such as Huangshan with 61 µg/m³, showed substantially lower levels. The correlation network displayed small-world properties, with Hefei serving as the primary hub of pollutant transmission. Community detection divided the network into northern and central–southern clusters, revealing a dominant north-to-south transport pathway. Interannual analysis showed increasing network density, indicating strengthened regional linkages. These findings provide scientific evidence for targeted ozone control and highlight the importance of core-node management, community-based collaboration, and seasonally differentiated strategies. The framework offers a scalable reference for pollution control in data-limited regions.