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Kalabahi, nestled on the island of Alor in Nusa Tenggara Timur province, Indonesia, presents a unique geographic setting influencing its air quality. The city occupies a coastal position along the northern shore of Alor, benefitting from sea breezes but also vulnerable to marine-sourced pollutants. The terrain is predominantly hilly and volcanic, rising sharply inland from the narrow coastal plain where Kalabahi is concentrated. This topography can trap pollutants during periods of calm weather. The surrounding landscape is a mix of savannah grasslands, dry tropical forests, and agricultural land, primarily small-scale farming of maize, cassava, and coconut. While Kalabahi isn’t a major industrial hub, localized activity like fish processing and small workshops contribute to emissions. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; the city centre quickly transitions to rural villages and agricultural areas. Proximity to the Savu Sea means salt spray and marine aerosols are common components of the air. The prevailing winds, influenced by the Indonesian monsoon system, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants. The relatively small size of Kalabahi means emissions are concentrated, potentially exacerbating local air quality issues, particularly during dry seasons when dust and smoke from agricultural burning are prevalent. Understanding this interplay of geography and activity is vital for managing air quality in Kalabahi.

Kalabahi experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing air quality. The dry season, typically from May to October, sees a significant deterioration in air quality. Reduced rainfall leads to increased dust from unpaved roads and agricultural lands, while farmers often employ slash-and-burn techniques for land clearing, releasing substantial smoke. The winds during this period, while generally dispersing, can also carry smoke from fires on neighbouring islands. November to April marks the wet season, bringing relief from dust and smoke. Rainfall effectively washes pollutants from the air, improving visibility and overall air quality. However, increased humidity can also foster mold growth, potentially impacting respiratory health. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air below, can occur sporadically throughout the year, particularly during calmer periods, exacerbating pollution concentrations. February and March, during the peak of the wet season, generally offer the best air quality. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season, especially when smoke haze is visible. Monitoring wind direction and avoiding strenuous activity on days with stagnant air are also recommended.