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Leso, Aklan, Philippines, occupies a geographically significant position on the island of Panay, nestled within the broader Western Visayas region. Its coordinates (11.6697° N, 122.3269° E) place it within a coastal plain, characterized by relatively flat terrain gently sloping towards the Sibuyan Sea. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural lands – primarily rice paddies and coconut plantations – interspersed with small pockets of secondary forest. This agricultural intensity contributes to localized particulate matter, particularly during harvesting seasons. Leso’s proximity to the sea moderates temperatures but also introduces marine aerosols into the air, which can influence visibility and contribute to complex chemical reactions. The urban character of Leso is distinctly rural, a small barangay within the larger municipality of Kalibo. It lacks significant industrial zones; however, Kalibo, a short distance away, hosts some light industries and a bustling airport, potentially introducing pollutants transported by prevailing winds. The urban-rural gradient is gradual, with agricultural activities dominating the immediate periphery. Elevation is minimal, rarely exceeding 20 meters above sea level, which limits natural dispersion of pollutants and can exacerbate ground-level concentrations. The prevailing winds, influenced by the monsoon patterns, generally flow from the southwest during the wet season, carrying moisture and potential pollutants from across the sea. The lack of substantial topographic barriers means that air quality is susceptible to regional pollution events, though the small population size currently mitigates this effect.

Leso’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, typically spanning November to May, sees reduced rainfall and increased solar radiation. This leads to higher temperatures, which can exacerbate photochemical smog formation, although the limited industrial activity minimizes this effect. During this period, agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and crop residue disposal, becomes a significant source of particulate matter, particularly in March and April. The wet season, from June to October, brings frequent rainfall and increased humidity. These conditions naturally scrub the atmosphere, reducing particulate concentrations and gaseous pollutants. However, the monsoon winds can also transport pollutants from other regions of Panay Island, occasionally leading to temporary spikes in air quality. Fog, a relatively infrequent occurrence, can trap pollutants near the ground, creating localized pockets of poor air quality, especially in the early morning hours. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly when agricultural burning is prevalent. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, although vigilance regarding regional pollution events is still advised. The combination of high humidity and potential for sudden downpours can also create uncomfortable conditions for those with asthma or allergies. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation is crucial throughout the year, especially during periods of agricultural activity.