Variations in gamma radiation and alpha-emitting radionuclides in correlation with weather and location conditions

Abstract

Abstract This research examines variations in natural radiation, focusing on terrestrial radiation and radon, in relation to weather and location. Understanding fluctuations in gamma and alpha radiation is crucial for distinguishing meteorologically-induced changes from artificial contamination. Measurements were performed hourly and daily at nine stations over the course of one year. The highest annual gamma doses were recorded in the mountain stations. The lowest gamma radiation levels and alpha-emitting radionuclide concentrations were observed in seaside regions. Precipitation influenced alpha-emitting radionuclide concentrations more than gamma radiation. Hourly variations of gamma radiation showed no consistent pattern. Statistical analysis indicated a positive correlation between gamma radiation and temperature at most locations, except near the sea where sea breezes influenced gamma dose rates. Other meteorological parameters had minimal impact on gamma radiation variations. For alpha-emitting radionuclides, a positive correlation with temperature was found, while atmospheric pressure and wind speed showed negative correlations. Seasonal variations in gamma radiation did not follow a uniform trend across all locations. In the case of seasonal variations in alpha-emitting radionuclides concentrations, the highest average values were observed during autumn and the lowest in spring.