San Juan Tecuaco Air Quality Index (AQI)

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San Juan Tecuaco, nestled within the Santa Rosa department of Guatemala, occupies a geographically significant position in the country’s southern plains. Located at coordinates 14.0836, -90.2664, the town sits at a modest elevation, contributing to a relatively warm and humid climate. The surrounding landscape is characterised by rolling hills transitioning into the Pacific coastal plain, with agricultural lands dominating the immediate vicinity. This region is heavily reliant on agriculture, particularly sugarcane and maize cultivation, which introduces potential sources of particulate matter from field preparation, harvesting, and burning practices. The proximity to the Pacific Ocean, though not directly coastal, influences local weather patterns and can contribute to humidity levels that affect pollutant dispersion. The urban character of San Juan Tecuaco is largely rural, with a population of 12,825, indicating a strong urban-rural gradient. Limited industrial activity within the town itself suggests that the primary air quality concerns stem from agricultural sources, domestic wood-burning for cooking, and vehicle emissions along the main transport routes connecting it to larger regional centres. The terrain, while not mountainous, can create localised microclimates affecting pollutant concentration and movement.

San Juan Tecuaco experiences a pronounced wet and dry season, dictating the annual air quality narrative. The dry season, typically spanning November to April, witnesses a peak in particulate matter pollution. Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, and agricultural burning for land preparation becomes more frequent, releasing significant smoke and ash. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler mornings of the dry season, trap pollutants near ground level, exacerbating conditions. Conversely, the wet season (May to October) generally brings improved air quality. Frequent rainfall effectively washes pollutants from the atmosphere, and higher humidity can suppress dust. However, increased cloud cover can also lead to stagnant air conditions. August and September, the months of heaviest rainfall, are typically the most favourable for outdoor activity. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly February and March, and consider limiting strenuous outdoor activities. Monitoring local conditions and staying indoors during periods of visible smoke is advisable. The prevailing winds, generally from the east, can transport pollutants from agricultural areas westward towards the town.