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Palmar de Varela, nestled within the Atlántico department of Colombia, occupies a strategically important position within the broader Barranquilla metropolitan area. Located at approximately 10.75° N, 74.75° W, the city’s geography is characterized by a relatively flat terrain, typical of the Magdalena River Delta region. Its elevation is low, averaging around 10 meters above sea level, contributing to a humid, tropical climate. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural lands, primarily dedicated to sugarcane cultivation and livestock farming, interspersed with smaller settlements and patches of mangrove forest along the riverine edges. Palmar de Varela’s proximity to the Magdalena River significantly influences its microclimate, introducing humidity and potential for localized flooding during periods of heavy rainfall. The city’s urban fabric is a blend of residential areas, small-scale commercial zones, and industrial activity, largely related to the processing of agricultural products. The urban–rural gradient is relatively gradual, with agricultural activities extending close to the city limits. The prevailing winds, often influenced by the Caribbean Sea, play a crucial role in dispersing pollutants, though their effectiveness can be hampered by temperature inversions, particularly during drier periods. The city’s location within a major agricultural belt means that agricultural practices, including the burning of fields, can contribute to localized air pollution episodes. The influence of Barranquilla, a major industrial and port city, also extends to Palmar de Varela, potentially impacting air quality through the transport of pollutants.

Palmar de Varela experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, significantly impacting air quality patterns. The wet season, typically spanning from April to November, brings frequent rainfall and high humidity. While the rain helps to cleanse the atmosphere, reducing particulate matter, the increased humidity can exacerbate respiratory issues for sensitive individuals. The dry season, from December to March, is characterized by lower rainfall, higher temperatures, and a greater propensity for temperature inversions. These inversions trap pollutants near the ground, leading to periods of stagnant air and potentially elevated concentrations of pollutants from agricultural burning and local industrial sources. During the dry season, the sugarcane industry’s activities, including field preparation through controlled burns, are intensified, contributing significantly to particulate matter pollution. The prevailing easterly trade winds, which usually provide some dispersion, can weaken during this period, further exacerbating the problem. The months of January and February often experience the poorest air quality due to a combination of these factors. Individuals with respiratory conditions, such as asthma or COPD, and young children should exercise caution during these months, limiting outdoor activities and monitoring for any adverse health effects. The transition periods between wet and dry seasons can also be challenging, with fluctuating humidity levels and unpredictable wind patterns. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration is particularly important throughout the year, but especially during periods of heightened pollution.