Influence of the mid-high-latitude Eurasian ISO on PM2.5 concentration anomaly in North China during boreal winter

This study aims to examine the intraseasonal variation of PM2.5 concentration in North China and explore the potential influence of the Eurasian mid-high-latitude intraseasonal oscillation (ISO) on this variation. A statistically significant period of 10–30 days is observed for PM2.5 concentration anomalies in North China. Further study suggests that circulation patterns and associated meteorological factors play a crucial role in pollution events in North China. These factors influence local accumulation of pollutants and hygroscopic growth conditions. Based on the ISO phases, it is found that, at the earliest, the circulation in phase 2 provides favorable conditions for pollution. The circulation involved phase 2 leads to a strong increase in surface air temperature, a decrease in sea level pressure, and an increase in humidity in the low layers. These conditions provide favorable meteorological conditions for the accumulation of PM2.5 in North China. The interannual variability of ISO intensity and its impact on PM2.5 concentration in North China has also been analyzed. The results show that the circulation is stronger and propagates more southeastward during strong ISO years. Under the influence of the anticyclonic circulation in Mongolia during strong ISO years, favorable moisture conditions and atmospheric stability contribute to an increase in pollution.