Alcala Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Alcala, Pangasinan, nestled in the heart of the Philippines’ agricultural region, presents a unique geographic context influencing its air quality. Located at 15.8468°N, 120.5218°E, the municipality occupies a relatively flat terrain typical of the Central Luzon Plain, though gentle undulations are present. This low elevation, approximately 25 meters above sea level, contributes to limited natural air dispersion. Alcala is surrounded by expansive rice paddies and agricultural lands, a defining characteristic of Pangasinan province, often referred to as the ‘Rice Bowl of the Philippines’. The Agno River flows nearby, providing irrigation but also potentially contributing to humidity and localised temperature inversions. While not heavily industrialised, the surrounding areas see agricultural processing and some small-scale manufacturing. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; Alcala itself is a relatively small municipality with a population of around 48,908, transitioning quickly to predominantly agricultural landscapes. This proximity to farming practices – including seasonal burning of rice straw after harvest – is a significant factor in localised air pollution events. The prevailing winds, influenced by the monsoon patterns, play a crucial role in pollutant transport and dispersion, or lack thereof, depending on seasonal conditions. The flat topography limits the flushing of pollutants, making Alcala susceptible to air stagnation.

Alcala’s air quality follows a distinct wet and dry season pattern dictated by the Philippine monsoon. The dry season, typically from November to May, sees a peak in particulate matter pollution. This is largely due to increased agricultural activities, specifically the post-harvest burning of rice straw, a common practice to clear fields for the next planting. Lower humidity and stable atmospheric conditions during these months exacerbate the problem, trapping pollutants near the ground. February to April are generally the months when outdoor activity should be limited for sensitive individuals. The onset of the southwest monsoon (Habagat) in June brings much-needed relief. Heavy rainfall effectively washes away pollutants, and increased wind speeds aid in dispersion, resulting in improved air quality. However, the wet season also brings increased humidity, which can contribute to the formation of mould and other biological pollutants indoors. September and October, as the monsoon weakens, can see a slight resurgence of particulate matter as agricultural activities resume. Individuals with respiratory conditions should be particularly cautious during the transition periods. Fog can also occur during cooler mornings, trapping pollutants and reducing visibility. Overall, the wet season offers the most favourable conditions for outdoor activity.