Sison Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Sison, Pangasinan, nestled in the heart of the Philippines’ Luzon Island, occupies a geographically significant position within the broader Central Luzon region. Located at approximately 16.17° N, 120.52° E, the municipality sits on a gently sloping terrain, transitioning from coastal plains to rolling hills as one moves inland. Its proximity to the Lingayen Gulf, a major inlet of the South China Sea, influences local weather patterns and contributes to humidity levels. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural lands – primarily rice paddies and cornfields – interspersed with small settlements and scattered patches of secondary forest. This agricultural intensity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to localized air pollution from agricultural burning practices, particularly during harvest seasons. Sison’s urban character is primarily provincial, with a developing commercial center and residential areas radiating outwards. The urban–rural gradient is relatively gradual, with agricultural activities seamlessly blending into the town’s periphery. Elevation varies slightly, generally ranging from 10 to 50 meters above sea level, which can influence the dispersion of pollutants. While Sison isn't directly adjacent to major industrial belts, its location within Pangasinan places it within reach of industrial zones further south, potentially experiencing some downwind impacts. The prevailing winds, often influenced by monsoon patterns, play a crucial role in the transport of pollutants from these areas, impacting Sison’s air quality.

Sison’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning November to May, often sees a slight improvement in air quality due to reduced rainfall and less atmospheric moisture. However, this period also coincides with increased agricultural burning as farmers clear fields for the next planting season, leading to elevated particulate matter concentrations, especially in rural areas surrounding the town. The wet season, from June to October, brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity, which generally helps to cleanse the atmosphere by washing away pollutants. However, periods of prolonged rainfall can sometimes lead to stagnant air conditions, particularly in low-lying areas, potentially trapping pollutants near the ground. During the transition months (May/June and October/November), temperature inversions are possible, where cooler air becomes trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, preventing vertical mixing and leading to pollutant accumulation. Fog, more common during the cooler months, can also exacerbate this effect. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during agricultural burning periods and be mindful of potential stagnant air episodes. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, but vigilance is still advised, particularly during periods of reduced wind and increased humidity. The intensity of monsoon rains can also temporarily disrupt visibility and impact air quality due to water droplets acting as condensation nuclei for pollutants.