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Magangué, nestled in the Bolívar department of Colombia, occupies a strategically important position on the Magdalena River, Colombia’s primary waterway. Located at approximately 9.25° N, 74.77° W, the city’s geography is defined by its fluvial setting and the surrounding low-lying plains of the Llanos Orientales. The terrain is predominantly flat, with elevations rarely exceeding 30 meters above sea level, contributing to a generally stable atmospheric layer. This flatness, however, can exacerbate air quality issues as it limits vertical mixing and dispersion of pollutants. The Magdalena River itself exerts a significant influence, moderating temperatures and contributing to humidity, but also potentially trapping pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. Surrounding Magangué is a mosaic of agricultural land, primarily dedicated to cattle ranching and the cultivation of crops like rice and plantain, which can contribute to particulate matter through agricultural practices and seasonal burning. Further afield, the landscape transitions into the more rugged terrain of the Serranía de San Lucas, though its direct influence on Magangué’s immediate air quality is limited due to distance. The urban–rural gradient is relatively gradual, with smaller settlements and agricultural areas blending into the city’s periphery. Industrial activity, while not extensive, is present, primarily focused on processing agricultural products and supporting river transport, adding localized sources of emissions. The city’s location within a broad river valley, coupled with its flat topography, creates a geographical setting where air pollutants can accumulate, particularly during periods of stagnant air.

Magangué’s tropical climate dictates a wet and dry season pattern, profoundly influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning December to April, often sees a slight improvement in air quality due to increased wind speeds and more frequent rainfall, which naturally clears particulate matter. However, this period also witnesses increased agricultural burning for land preparation, releasing significant amounts of smoke and contributing to localized spikes in particulate pollution. The wet season, from May to November, is characterized by higher humidity and frequent rainfall, which generally helps to wash pollutants from the atmosphere. However, prolonged periods of rain can also lead to fog formation, particularly in the mornings, trapping pollutants near the ground and creating localized episodes of reduced visibility and potentially elevated concentrations of certain gases. Temperature inversions, though less frequent than in cooler climates, can occur during the dry season, particularly in the early morning hours, preventing vertical mixing and allowing pollutants to accumulate. The combination of humidity and stagnant air during the wet season can also exacerbate respiratory issues. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during periods of agricultural burning (December-February) and during prolonged foggy periods in the wet season. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the drier months, but vigilance regarding agricultural smoke is crucial. The intensity of rainfall and wind patterns significantly dictate the daily air quality fluctuations, with calmer, humid days posing a greater risk of pollutant accumulation.