25- Discriminating Aerosol Regimes in the Caribbean: A Multi-scale Approach Using PM₂.₅/PM₁₀ Ratios, Optical Properties, and Satellite Observations. [Euphrasie-Clotilde et al (2026)]

The Caribbean is one of the world’s main regions affected by Saharan dust, yet localized studies on aerosol types remain limited. This research introduces an innovative approach combining ground-based measurements, particle size analyses, and satellite observations to better characterize aerosol regimes over Puerto Rico between 1999 and 2021. The results reveal a clear predominance of large particles, mainly associated with Saharan dust and marine spray, along with a marked seasonal cycle peaking in summer during transatlantic dust transport. The study also identifies a significant shift since 2017, characterized by an increase in fine particles and more intense absorbing aerosol episodes, thereby improving understanding and monitoring of air quality in the context of climate change.