Dagupan City Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Dagupan City serves as a pivotal commercial nexus in Pangasinan, nestled within the low-lying alluvial plains of Northern Luzon. Its geography is defined by its intimate relationship with the Lingayen Gulf, which provides a constant maritime influence on the local climate. The city's terrain is remarkably flat, characterized by a high water table and a network of river systems that historically supported its thriving aquaculture industry. This low elevation and proximity to the coast create a dynamic interplay between land and sea breezes, which generally helps in dispersing urban pollutants. However, the urban character is a blend of dense commercial districts and sprawling residential zones that transition into agricultural hinterlands. The urban-rural gradient is tight, meaning that emissions from agricultural burning in the surrounding plains often drift into the city center. Industrial activity is relatively modest compared to Metro Manila, but the concentration of public utility vehicles, particularly jeepneys and tricycles, creates localized pollution hotspots along major arteries. The surrounding landscape consists of salt beds and fishponds, which contribute unique aerosols to the atmosphere. Because there are no significant mountain ranges to trap air, the city avoids the severe temperature inversions seen in valley cities, yet the high humidity often traps particulate matter near the ground during stagnant weather periods, affecting the overall clarity and air quality of the urban environment. The resulting atmospheric profile is a complex mix of saline sea air and concentrated urban exhaust.

In Dagupan City, air quality follows the rhythmic cycle of the tropical wet and dry seasons. The dry season, spanning from November to April, is dominated by the Northeast Monsoon, known as Amihan. During these months, cooler, drier air flows across the region, often bringing clearer skies. However, this period also coincides with agricultural clearing in the Pangasinan plains; smoke from burning rice straws and crop residues can lead to spikes in particulate matter, particularly during the early morning hours when temperature inversions are most likely. Conversely, the wet season, from May to October, is influenced by the Southwest Monsoon or Habagat. This period is characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity, which act as a natural scrubbing mechanism, washing pollutants out of the atmosphere and significantly lowering particulate levels. Despite the rain, the extreme humidity can exacerbate the feeling of air heaviness. For sensitive groups, including children and the elderly, the peak dry months of February and March are the most challenging due to the combination of dust and agricultural smoke. Outdoor activities are best scheduled for the late afternoon during the wet season or early morning during the Amihan period, provided there is a strong sea breeze. Health guidance emphasizes the use of masks during peak burning windows and staying hydrated to combat the respiratory stress caused by the interplay of high heat and urban smog. This seasonal oscillation defines the respiratory health landscape of the city.