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San Juan de Urabá, nestled within the Antioquia department of Colombia, occupies a crucial position in the country’s connection to the Atlantic coast. Located at coordinates 8.7667, -76.5333, the city’s geography is defined by its proximity to the Gulf of Urabá, a significant arm of the Caribbean Sea. The terrain is largely flat, transitioning quickly to the lush, humid forests of the Darién Gap to the east and south, and the Serranía de San Jerónimo mountains further inland. This low-lying coastal location, with an elevation of only a few meters above sea level, significantly influences air quality. The urban area is relatively small, with a population of 27,149, exhibiting a strong urban-rural gradient as it borders extensive agricultural lands – primarily banana, plantain, and palm oil plantations. While San Juan de Urabá isn’t heavily industrialized, port activity related to agricultural exports and regional commerce contributes to localized emissions. The constant sea breezes offer some dispersion, but can also trap pollutants during periods of calm. The surrounding landscape, dominated by dense vegetation, plays a role in natural filtration, yet deforestation for agricultural expansion diminishes this benefit. The city’s position within a tropical climate means high humidity and consistent temperatures, impacting pollutant behaviour.

San Juan de Urabá experiences a distinct bimodal rainfall pattern rather than traditional seasons, with two wet and two drier periods. Air quality generally improves during the drier months of January to March and July to September. The drier air allows for greater pollutant dispersion, reducing concentrations of particulate matter from agricultural activities and port operations. However, even during these periods, dust from unpaved roads and localized burning can be problematic. The wet seasons, from April to June and October to December, bring increased rainfall which initially washes pollutants from the air, but also creates conditions for increased humidity and potential mould growth, impacting respiratory health. Calm winds during the transition months (March/April and September/October) can lead to stagnation and localized pollution build-up. Temperature inversions, though less frequent than in mountainous regions, can occur, trapping pollutants near ground level. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during calm periods and the peak of the wet seasons. Monitoring wind patterns is crucial; easterly winds tend to bring cleaner air from the interior, while westerly winds can carry pollutants from coastal activities.