Overview

• Measurements in College Station during August 2024 showed higher concentrations of ozone, oxygenated volatile organic compounds, and acid-rich nanoparticles as temperatures rose.
• Sampling ran from Aug. 5 to Sept. 3 during 90–106°F conditions, avoided nearby wildfire smoke to isolate heat effects, and used a PTR-ToF-4000 with concurrent ozone and nitrogen oxides monitoring.
• The team observed increased emissions of tree-derived VOCs such as isoprene during extreme heat, contributing to ozone and secondary organic aerosol formation under strong sunlight.
• Interim advice urged staying indoors from noon to 4 p.m., limiting exertion near roads or urban hot spots, tracking the local air quality index, and keeping windows closed during heat waves.
• Additional analysis is underway after the conference presentation as researchers work to improve pollution prediction and public-health planning under worsening heat.