Swansea Air Quality Index (AQI)

Loading live AQI data...

Loading historical AQI trends...

Swansea, Massachusetts, is a town nestled within Bristol County, positioned in the southeastern part of the state. Its geography is defined by a gently rolling terrain, a legacy of glacial activity that sculpted the landscape. Situated at coordinates 41.7571, -71.2120, the town benefits from proximity to both freshwater and marine environments. The Taunton River forms a significant eastern boundary, flowing towards Mount Hope Bay and eventually Narragansett Bay. This coastal influence moderates temperatures but also introduces potential for humidity and fog. Historically, Swansea was a mill town, and remnants of this industrial past, though diminished, contribute to localized land use patterns. The surrounding landscape is a mix of forested areas, agricultural land – particularly cranberry bogs, a regional specialty – and increasingly, suburban development. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; Swansea transitions quickly from denser settlement near the river to more rural character inland. This proximity to agricultural practices can introduce seasonal particulate matter from harvesting and field preparation. The prevailing winds, generally from the southwest, can transport pollutants from larger urban centers to the west, impacting local air quality. The town’s elevation is relatively low, increasing susceptibility to temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground.

Swansea’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern. Spring brings increased pollen counts, impacting those with allergies, alongside potential particulate matter from agricultural activities as fields are prepared for planting. Summer typically sees better air quality, aided by prevailing winds dispersing pollutants and increased vertical mixing due to warmer temperatures. However, ozone formation can be a concern on hot, stagnant days, particularly downwind of regional traffic corridors. Autumn often experiences a temporary worsening of air quality due to leaf decomposition and residential wood burning for heating. November and December are generally the months with the lowest air quality, as temperature inversions become more frequent, trapping pollutants close to the ground. These inversions, coupled with increased wood smoke and vehicle emissions during colder weather, create periods of stagnant air. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during these periods. Fog, common in the fall and winter, can exacerbate particulate matter concentrations. Monitoring wind patterns is crucial; winds from the west can bring pollutants from more industrialized areas. Overall, spring and summer offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activity.