Data from: WRF 1960-2014 winter season simulations of particulate matter in the Sahel: implications for air quality and respiratory health

We use the Weather Research and Forecast model using the GOCART dust
module (WRF-CHEM) to simulate the particulate matter variations in the
Sahel during the winter seasons (January-March) of 1960-2014. Two
simulations are undertaken where the direct aerosol feedback is turned
off, and only transport is considered and where the direct aerosol
feedback is turned on. We find that simulated Sahelian PM10 and PM2.5
concentrations were lower in the 1960s and after 2003, and higher during
the period between 1988 and 2002. Higher Sahelian PM10 concentrations are
due to stronger winds between the surface and 925 hPa over the Sahara,
which transport dust into the Sahel. Negative PM10 concentration anomalies
are found over the Bodele Depression and associated with weaker 925 wind
anomalies after 1997 through 2014. Further west, positive PM10
concentration anomalies are found across the Adrar Plateau in the Sahara
and responsible for dust transport to the Western Sahel. The North
Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) is positively correlated to Sahelian dust
concentrations especially during the periods of 1960-1970 and 1988-2002.
The temporal/spatial patterns of PM10 concentrations have significant
respiratory health implications for inhabitants of the Sahel.