Terlizzi Air Quality Index (AQI)

Loading live AQI data...

Loading historical AQI trends...

Terlizzi, nestled in the Murge plateau of Puglia, Italy, presents a unique geographic setting influencing its air quality. Located approximately 25km northwest of Bari, the city sits at a modest elevation of around 200-250 meters above sea level. This plateau landscape, characterized by karstic formations and agricultural land, gently slopes towards the Adriatic Sea, roughly 15km to the east. The surrounding terrain is predominantly rural, dominated by olive groves, vineyards, and cereal fields, typical of the Apulian agricultural heartland. While Terlizzi isn’t directly adjacent to major industrial zones, the broader metropolitan area of Bari, with its port and associated industrial activity, contributes to regional background pollution levels. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, transitioning quickly from the town’s built environment to open countryside. This proximity to the sea offers some degree of atmospheric dispersion, but can also lead to the build-up of humidity and, occasionally, sea salt aerosols. The prevailing winds, generally from the north and west, can transport pollutants from inland areas, while southerly winds can bring maritime influences. The topography, while not mountainous, can create localized pockets where air stagnation occurs, exacerbating pollution episodes. Understanding this interplay of factors is crucial for assessing and mitigating air quality challenges in Terlizzi.

Terlizzi’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern. Summer months (June-August) typically experience the best air quality, driven by strong thermal mixing and prevailing winds dispersing pollutants. However, intense sunshine and high temperatures can promote ground-level ozone formation, particularly in agricultural areas due to biogenic volatile organic compound emissions. Autumn (September-November) sees a gradual deterioration as temperatures cool and atmospheric stability increases. Agricultural burning of crop residues, a common practice in the region, significantly contributes to particulate matter pollution during this period. Winter (December-February) often presents the poorest air quality. Weak winds, temperature inversions, and increased residential heating with wood and biomass contribute to elevated levels of particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5). Fog, common in the Murge plateau during winter, can trap pollutants near the ground. Spring (March-May) is a transitional period, with fluctuating conditions. Rainfall helps to cleanse the atmosphere, but periods of calm weather can still lead to pollution build-up. Sensitive individuals – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should be particularly cautious during autumn and winter, limiting strenuous outdoor activity on days with poor visibility. Monitoring pollen levels is also advisable during spring.