Manatí Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Manatí, nestled in the province of Las Tunas, Cuba, occupies a strategically important coastal position on the northern edge of the island, approximately 370 kilometers east of Havana. Its coordinates, 21.3144° N, -76.9378° W, place it within a relatively flat coastal plain, gently sloping towards the Atlantic Ocean. The surrounding landscape is a blend of agricultural land, primarily sugarcane fields, and low-lying hills further inland. The proximity to the Bay of Manatí, a significant natural harbor, has historically shaped the city’s development, fostering maritime trade and industrial activity. The urban fabric is characterized by a mix of colonial-era architecture and more modern constructions, reflecting its evolution from a small port town to a regional industrial center. Manatí’s terrain, largely flat, minimizes topographic barriers to air dispersion, but also means that pollutants can linger closer to the ground, particularly during periods of calm weather. The urban–rural gradient transitions relatively quickly, with agricultural zones dominating the immediate periphery. A key factor influencing air quality is the presence of the industrial zone, historically focused on sugar processing and now diversifying into other sectors. This zone, located near the coast, contributes localized emissions. The prevailing easterly trade winds generally provide some degree of ventilation, but their effectiveness is significantly reduced during certain times of the year, leading to potential air quality challenges. The city’s location within a humid subtropical climate also influences atmospheric stability and pollutant behavior.

Manatí’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, typically spanning November to April, often sees a reduction in overall rainfall, leading to lower atmospheric cleansing through precipitation. However, this period can also experience periods of stagnant air, particularly during high-pressure systems, which can trap pollutants near the surface. Temperature inversions, where cooler air settles below warmer air, are more frequent during these months, further hindering vertical mixing and concentrating emissions. The sugarcane harvest season, which often overlaps with the dry season, contributes significantly to particulate matter pollution from burning fields, a traditional practice though increasingly regulated. The wet season, from May to October, brings frequent rainfall, naturally scrubbing the atmosphere and reducing pollutant concentrations. However, heavy downpours can also lead to increased humidity, which can exacerbate respiratory issues for sensitive individuals. Fog, though less common than in some other coastal regions, can occasionally form during the cooler months, trapping pollutants and reducing visibility. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, particularly in the late afternoon when rainfall has cleansed the air. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, especially during periods of stagnant air or sugarcane burning, and be mindful of increased humidity during the wet season. Monitoring local weather patterns and air quality advisories is crucial for informed decision-making regarding outdoor exposure.