Influence of meteorological conditions on noise dispersion in the Port of Thessaloniki

Abstract Although noise dispersion models are widely used for the assessment of noise levels across different domains, the influence of meteorological conditions on environmental noise is usually neglected even though modelling requirements often list meteorological data as a key part for conducting successful modelling exercises. In order to evaluate the magnitude of influence of meteorological conditions on noise dispersion, different meteorological scenarios have been tested. The meteorological parameters that have been addressed include wind speed and direction, air temperature and atmospheric pressure. The simulations have been performed using data obtained from the Port of Thessaloniki, which include standard noise data (locations of noise sources and barriers, noise power levels of individual sources), as well as yearly averages and extremes for the meteorological parameters. Wind speed and direction have been shown to have a major influence on environmental noise levels. The modelled difference in levels due to changes in wind speed and direction reached 7 dB in several receivers indicating an effect that should not be neglected. Air temperature and atmospheric pressure had very little influence on noise levels. In conclusion, when addressing and modelling environmental noise levels, wind speed and direction must be properly accounted for and should not be neglected.