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Lhokseumawe, a coastal city in Aceh, Indonesia, occupies a strategically important position on the northeastern coast of Sumatra, cradled by the Indian Ocean. Its coordinates (5.1881, 97.1403) place it within a predominantly low-lying delta region, formed by the flow of several rivers including the Krueng Aceh. The terrain is generally flat, transitioning to gently undulating hills further inland, a characteristic of the Sumatran coastal plain. This flatness, while facilitating urban development, can also exacerbate air quality issues as pollutants tend to accumulate rather than disperse readily. The city’s proximity to the Indian Ocean introduces a maritime influence, moderating temperatures but also bringing in sea salt aerosols which can contribute to particulate matter. Surrounding Lhokseumawe is a mosaic of agricultural land, primarily focused on palm oil plantations and rice paddies, which, while vital to the regional economy, can contribute to localized emissions from burning and fertilizer use. Further inland, the landscape gradually rises, transitioning into forested areas. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with the city’s industrial zone, historically centered around oil and gas processing, situated close to residential areas. This proximity, combined with the city’s expanding population and increasing vehicle traffic, presents ongoing challenges for maintaining acceptable air quality. The regional position, a hub for trade and transportation, also means Lhokseumawe experiences increased vehicular emissions and potential industrial pollution from associated activities.

Lhokseumawe’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly influencing its air quality profile. The dry season, typically spanning from March to September, often sees a slight improvement in air quality due to increased wind speeds and solar radiation, which aids in pollutant dispersion. However, this period also witnesses heightened agricultural activity, particularly burning practices associated with land clearing for palm oil and rice cultivation. These activities release significant quantities of particulate matter and volatile organic compounds, occasionally leading to localized haze events. The wet season, from October to February, brings consistently higher rainfall and humidity. While the rain helps to wash pollutants from the atmosphere, the increased humidity can trap moisture and contribute to the formation of fog, particularly in the mornings. This fog, combined with reduced wind speeds, can create stagnant air conditions, allowing pollutants to accumulate near ground level. Temperature inversions, a common meteorological phenomenon during the cooler, wetter months, further exacerbate this issue, trapping cooler, denser air (and associated pollutants) close to the surface. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during periods of fog and reduced visibility, limiting outdoor exertion. The months of November and December often experience the most persistent fog, making them potentially challenging for outdoor activities. Careful monitoring of local conditions and adherence to public health advisories are crucial during these times.