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Dupax del Sur, nestled in the heart of Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines, occupies a geographically significant position within the Cordillera Central mountain range. Located at approximately 16.2842° N, 121.0917° E and an elevation averaging around 650 meters above sea level, the city’s terrain is characterized by steep slopes, rolling hills, and deep valleys, typical of a mountainous region. The surrounding landscape is dominated by dense forests, interspersed with agricultural lands primarily dedicated to rice and corn cultivation. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, contributes to localized particulate matter, particularly during harvest seasons. The city’s urban character is distinctly rural, with a small, concentrated settlement surrounded by a predominantly agrarian landscape. There's a gradual urban-rural gradient extending outwards, transitioning from residential areas to farms and eventually to the forested slopes of the mountains. Dupax del Sur’s proximity to the Cagayan River basin, though not directly adjacent, influences regional weather patterns and potential for moisture transport. The mountainous terrain creates a natural barrier, impacting wind flow and potentially leading to localized air stagnation, especially during periods of calm weather. While not situated near major industrial belts, the reliance on traditional farming methods, including burning of agricultural waste, and the use of older vehicle fleets contribute to the city’s air quality profile. The steep topography also limits dispersion of pollutants, concentrating them in valley bottoms.

Dupax del Sur experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, significantly influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from November to May, often sees a build-up of pollutants due to reduced rainfall and lower humidity. During this period, agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and crop residue disposal, becomes more prevalent, releasing significant amounts of particulate matter and contributing to hazy conditions. Temperature inversions, where cooler air is trapped beneath warmer air, are also more frequent during the dry season, hindering vertical mixing and further concentrating pollutants near the ground. The wet season, from June to October, brings frequent rainfall and increased humidity, naturally cleansing the air and reducing pollutant concentrations. Monsoon winds, particularly during the peak of the wet season, help disperse pollutants, improving air quality. Fog, common during the cooler months of the dry season, can trap pollutants, creating localized pockets of poor air quality. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, particularly from July to September. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, especially during agricultural burning periods. Minimizing exposure to smoke and seeking shelter indoors during hazy days is recommended. The combination of agricultural practices and meteorological conditions dictates the seasonal air quality trends in Dupax del Sur, demanding awareness and proactive measures to mitigate potential health impacts.