So let's check on some of the characteristics of the air we are enjoying today.
First, it is clean---really clean--with the smoke of summer a distant memory.
For example, the particulate level (PM2.5 small particles that are bad for your lungs) is way down, as low as it goes around here (see plot since June 1 below). Other pollutants, like low-level ozone, are also down.
With a lack of particles, the sky has been very blue, when the clouds were not there. The image from the Seattle Space Needle Panocam shows the azure skies. Blue skies and sun are a psychological plus, even for cloud-accustomed Northwesteners.
What about relative humidity? According to a number of studies, the optimal relative humidity range for human health is around 40-60%, with low relative humidity promoting flu and breathing problems. No problem. Ou relative humidities the past few days have rarely dropped below 50% and have been around 50-60% every afternoon! (see plot below for the past 12 weeks)
Cool, crisp air is a pleasure for the lungs, but not too cold. The plot of air temperatures at the UW for the last 12 weeks shows our perfect situation the last few days. High temperatures in the mid-60s, but with temperatures only dropping into the mid-50s. Ideal.
And there is something else, some essence of fall air that I can not describe with available numbers--some aroma from the falling leaves, a smell of rain on the previously dry ground---you know what I mean.
Clean, cool, unpolluted air of the proper humidity. Fall is here...time to take a deep breath. And time to appreciate living in one of the rare locations where it all comes together in such a wonderful way.
from Cliff Mass Weather and Climate Blog https://ift.tt/2QFmqpG
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