Author(s): Mark-Andrian Skljarov; Janek Laanearu

Linked Author(s): Janek Laanearu

Keywords: No Keywords

Abstract: It is shown that a low-height, thermally varying point source in a coastal-city environment produces dispersion patterns that depend strongly on local microclimate and land–sea temperature contrasts. A combined Gaussian–CFD modelling approach is established, where the Gaussian model is first calibrated against CFD in an open, obstacle-free domain. For calibration, a non-stratified, unified-temperature case is used. The resulting dispersion parameters are then applied to the coastal configuration, enabling consistent pollution modelling in the original urban setup. When comparing the calibrated Gaussian solution with the CFD results, the CFD model reveals plume rise, lateral deflection, and recirculation features that the analytical approach cannot reproduce. The comparison confirms that the Gaussian approach is suitable only when the ambient wind exceeds the stack exit speed and the source is well-exposed above nearby obstacles, whereas under weak winds or within the urban canopy, CFD is required for realistic predictions. The presented workflow provides a practical tool for estimating near-field pollutant distribution, offering interpretable smellscape maps for communication, planning and operational support in coastal districts.

DOI:

Year: 2026