San Antonio Air Quality Index (AQI)

Loading live AQI data...

Loading historical AQI trends...

San Antonio, Nueva Ecija, Philippines, sits within the vast Central Luzon Plain, a predominantly agricultural region crucial to the nation’s rice production. Located at coordinates 15.3078, 120.8533, the city’s terrain is generally flat, typical of alluvial plains formed by sediment deposition from the Pampanga River and its tributaries. This flatness contributes to limited natural air dispersion. The city’s elevation is relatively low, increasing susceptibility to humidity and temperature inversions. Surrounding San Antonio are extensive rice paddies, interspersed with smaller farms cultivating other crops. While not heavily industrialized *within* the city limits, its proximity to larger industrial zones in neighboring municipalities and the Clark Freeport Zone introduces potential for long-range pollutant transport. The urban-rural gradient is fairly sharp; the city centre is densely populated, while the periphery quickly transitions into agricultural land. This proximity to agricultural practices introduces potential for particulate matter from field preparation, harvesting, and burning of agricultural waste. The Pampanga River, while a vital water source, can also contribute to localized humidity and potentially trap pollutants during calm weather conditions. The prevailing winds, influenced by the monsoon patterns, play a significant role in pollutant dispersal, but can also concentrate pollutants during periods of stagnation.

San Antonio experiences a pronounced wet and dry season, dictating the city’s air quality patterns. The dry season, typically from November to May, sees a peak in particulate matter pollution. Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, and agricultural activities like land preparation and crop residue burning are more frequent, releasing significant amounts of PM2.5 and PM10. February to April are often the most challenging months for respiratory health. The onset of the wet season, around June, brings a dramatic improvement in air quality as rainfall washes away pollutants. However, increased humidity can also foster mold growth, impacting indoor air quality. The southwest monsoon (Habagat), prevailing from June to October, generally provides good ventilation, but can also transport pollutants from other regions. November sees a transitional period, with decreasing rainfall and a gradual build-up of pollutants. Fog is common during cooler months, potentially trapping pollutants near the ground. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exertion during the dry season, particularly in the late afternoon when pollutant concentrations are often highest. Maintaining good indoor ventilation and using air purifiers can offer additional protection.