Separating the impact of gradual lockdown measures on air pollutants from seasonal variability

Analysis of near-surface measurements at several measuring points in Graz, Austria, reveals the impact of restrictive measures during the COVID-19 pandemic on the emission of atmospheric pollutants. We quantify the effects at traffic hotspots, industrial and residential areas. Using historical data collected over several years, we are able to account for meteorological and seasonal confounders. Our analysis is based on daily means as well as intraday pollution level curves. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) has decreased drastically while the levels of particulate matter PM10 and carbon monoxide (CO) mostly exhibit little change. Traffic data shows that the decrease in traffic frequency is parallel to the decline in the levels of NO2 and NO. [Display omitted] •Modeling meteorological influence on near-surface air pollutants quantifies impact of different lockdown phases.•Intraday-monitoring indicates the strongest reductions around 8am and between 6–8pm.•Strong correlation between traffic frequency and NO2 and NO levels, but no significant correlation to CO and PM10.•Little change of PM10 in traffic and industrial areas, and increase in residential area.