Atmospheric Transport and Dispersion

What We Do

We provide essential tools and information for decision-makers and the research community to improve prediction of the atmospheric transport of toxic chemicals and other hazardous materials. We develop, improve, and test dispersion models and other tools for air quality and emergency response applications, including volcanic eruptions, forest fires, nuclear accidents, and homeland security incidents. We also develop instrumentation, design and evaluate high resolution observing networks, and conduct tracer field studies to improve the accuracy of atmospheric transport and dispersion predictions.

Why It Is Important

The accidental or intentional release of chemical, biological or nuclear agents can have significant health, safety, homeland and national security, economic, and ecological implications. Our research provides critical modeling and observation data to understand how, where, and when chemicals and materials are atmospherically transported. Having this understanding is essential for responding appropriately and preventing disaster.

For More Information:

• Real-time Environmental Applications and Display sYstem (READY)
• HYbrid Single-Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory (HYSPLIT) Model
• Volcanic Ash Transport and Dispersion Modeling
• DATEM - Data Archive of Tracer Experiments and Meteorology
• Atmospheric Tracer Technology
• Atmospheric Transport and Dispersion Summary Handout (PDF, 343 KB)