Al Madad Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Al Madad, nestled within the Aḑ Ḑāli‘ Governorate of Yemen, occupies a challenging geographical position in the country’s central highlands. Located at approximately 13.7167°N, 44.7333°E, the city sits amidst a rugged, mountainous terrain, part of the broader Yemeni Highlands. The surrounding landscape is characterised by steep valleys, terraced agriculture clinging to hillsides, and arid to semi-arid conditions. Al Madad’s elevation, around 2,100 meters (6,890 feet), significantly influences its climate and air quality. This altitude contributes to cooler temperatures compared to lower-lying areas, but also increases the potential for temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. The city isn’t directly adjacent to major bodies of water, though seasonal wadis (dry riverbeds) crisscross the region, occasionally carrying dust during flash floods. While Al Madad isn’t a heavily industrialised centre, regional agricultural practices – including the burning of agricultural waste – and the use of traditional cooking fuels contribute to localised air pollution. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural land immediately surrounding the city, transitioning to more barren, mountainous landscapes further afield. This proximity to agricultural zones means airborne particulate matter from farming activities is a key factor affecting air quality in Al Madad.

Air quality in Al Madad experiences distinct seasonal variations, largely dictated by Yemen’s complex monsoon patterns and topographical influences. The dry season, roughly from November to April, typically sees clearer skies but increased dust concentrations carried by prevailing winds from the Rub' al Khali desert. January and February are often the dustiest months, posing risks to respiratory health. During this period, temperature inversions are common, trapping pollutants in the valleys. The onset of the summer monsoon, around May, brings a temporary improvement in air quality as rainfall washes away dust and particulate matter. However, increased humidity can also foster the growth of mold and allergens. The peak of the monsoon, June to August, is generally the cleanest period, though flash flooding can stir up sediment. September and October see a transition period with decreasing rainfall and a gradual return of dust. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season and periods of high dust. Traditional cooking practices, relying on wood and charcoal, contribute to indoor air pollution year-round, necessitating good ventilation.