The connection of the dates of snow cover disappearance with a seasonal increase in the level of particulate matter concentrations in the Moscow metropolis

In this article the seasonal variability of the concentrations of particulate matter PM10 and PM2.5 on average in Moscow for 2017-2021 was investigated. It is shown that particulate matter concentrations vary depending on the season: the maximum values of particulate matter concentrations occur in spring-summer, absolute maximum are typical for April and a seasonal minimum is observed in winter. The differences of the seasonal course in Moscow, London and Beijing are explained by differences in climatic conditions and different anthropogenic sources. Episodes of increased concentrations of particulate matter in the spring are associated with the descent of snow cover and lack of precipitation, unfavorable meteorological conditions, as well as with the introduction of suspended particles into the territory of Moscow from other regions.