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Caseros, situated in the Buenos Aires Province of Argentina at coordinates -34.6106, -58.5625, occupies a relatively flat portion of the Pampas, the fertile South American grassland. This expansive plain, characterized by its low elevation, significantly influences local air quality. The city is part of the Greater Buenos Aires metropolitan area, a sprawling conurbation, and experiences a strong urban-rural gradient as one moves outwards. Caseros itself is densely populated with approximately 95,785 residents, exhibiting a typical South American urban form with a mix of residential, commercial, and light industrial areas. Its proximity to the Río Matanza-Riachuelo, a historically polluted waterway, is a key geographical factor. While not directly on the river, the prevailing winds can carry pollutants from the industrial activity concentrated along its banks towards Caseros. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive soybean and wheat cultivation. Dust from agricultural practices, particularly during harvest seasons, contributes to particulate matter pollution. The flat terrain offers little natural dispersion of pollutants, exacerbating the impact of local emissions from traffic and smaller-scale industries within the city itself. The lack of significant topographical features hinders the flushing of airborne contaminants.

Air quality in Caseros follows a distinct seasonal pattern, largely dictated by the humid subtropical climate of Buenos Aires Province. Spring (September-November) sees a gradual increase in pollution as temperatures rise and agricultural activity intensifies, releasing dust and pollen. Summer (December-February) brings the highest humidity and potential for temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground, particularly from vehicle emissions and industrial sources. These conditions are worsened by infrequent rainfall during these months. Autumn (March-May) offers a brief respite with cooler temperatures and increased precipitation, leading to improved air quality. However, the burning of agricultural residue after the harvest can temporarily elevate particulate matter levels. Winter (June-August) is generally the period of best air quality, due to lower temperatures reducing photochemical smog formation and decreased agricultural activity. However, increased use of heating systems, often relying on less efficient fuels, can contribute to localized indoor and outdoor pollution. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during summer afternoons and periods of agricultural burning. Monitoring wind direction is crucial, as pollutants from the Riachuelo River basin can be transported into Caseros during specific weather patterns.