Taliwang Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Taliwang, nestled on the island of Sumbawa in Nusa Tenggara Barat, Indonesia, presents a unique geographic context influencing its air quality. Situated at -8.7336 latitude and 116.8667 longitude, the city benefits from a coastal location along the Alas Strait, a key waterway separating Sumbawa from Lombok. The terrain is a mix of low-lying coastal plains and gently rising hills inland, creating a complex interplay of sea breezes and localized wind patterns. With a population of approximately 57,540, Taliwang is a regional hub, but remains largely defined by its surrounding agricultural landscape – primarily coconut plantations, rice paddies, and small-scale farming. While not heavily industrialized, the presence of local fishing fleets and associated processing activities contributes to emissions. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; moving inland quickly transitions from town life to rural villages and forested slopes. This proximity to the ocean offers some natural ventilation, but also means susceptibility to long-range transport of pollutants from other Indonesian islands and potentially even Australia during certain wind conditions. The surrounding hills can trap pollutants during temperature inversions, exacerbating localized air quality issues. The coastal location also means potential for salt spray and marine aerosol impacts on air composition.

Taliwang experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically from May to October, sees a peak in particulate matter pollution. Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, and increased dust from unpaved roads and agricultural activities becomes prevalent. Strong southeasterly winds during this period can also carry smoke from agricultural burning practices, both locally and from neighboring islands. November to April marks the wet season, bringing significant rainfall and improved air quality. The rain effectively washes pollutants from the atmosphere, and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, the wet season can also bring localized flooding, which can stir up sediment and contribute to microbial pollutants. February and March often experience the heaviest rainfall, offering the clearest air. Temperature inversions, common in the mornings throughout the year, can trap pollutants near ground level, particularly during calmer periods. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season, especially in the late afternoon. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; periods with winds from the south and east are likely to bring poorer air quality.