Abuyog Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Abuyog, nestled in the province of Leyte in the Philippines, presents a complex geographical setting influencing its air quality. Situated at coordinates 10.7458, 125.0122, the municipality is characterized by a diverse terrain of rolling hills and valleys, transitioning towards the Leyte Mountain Range to the west. This inland location, approximately 10 kilometers from the coast of Cancabato Bay, moderates the direct influence of marine winds but doesn’t eliminate it. The elevation varies considerably, contributing to localized microclimates and potential temperature inversions. Abuyog’s economy is largely agrarian, with significant rice cultivation and coconut farming in the surrounding areas. While not heavily industrialized, small-scale agricultural processing and the increasing use of agricultural machinery contribute to particulate matter emissions. The urban center itself is relatively small, with a population of 61,216, exhibiting a clear urban-rural gradient as one moves away from the poblacion. Deforestation in the surrounding hills, driven by agricultural expansion and logging, exacerbates soil erosion and dust generation, impacting local air quality. The Leyte Sab-a Basin, a major watershed, influences humidity and potential for stagnant air conditions. The topography funnels winds, creating areas of concentrated pollution during calm periods.

Abuyog experiences a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, typically from February to May, sees a peak in particulate matter pollution. Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, and agricultural activities like land preparation and burning of agricultural waste increase significantly. Stronger solar radiation also promotes ground-level ozone formation. March and April are generally the months with the poorest air quality. Conversely, the wet season, from June to November, brings relief. Frequent rainfall effectively washes pollutants from the atmosphere, and higher humidity suppresses dust. However, the monsoon winds can also transport pollutants from other areas of Leyte and Samar. December and January, marking the transition period, often experience calmer winds and increased humidity, potentially leading to localized pollution build-up. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly in March and April. During the wet season, while overall air quality is better, caution is advised during periods of heavy rainfall due to potential flooding and mold growth, which can trigger respiratory issues. Monitoring wind direction during monsoon season is also prudent.