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Cómbita, nestled in the department of Boyacá, Colombia, occupies a geographically significant position within the Eastern Cordillera of the Andes. Located at approximately 5.75° N, 73.25° W and an elevation of around 2,280 meters (7,480 feet) above sea level, the city’s topography is dominated by steep slopes and valleys, characteristic of the Andean highlands. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of rolling hills, pastureland used for cattle ranching, and patches of cloud forest, contributing to a predominantly rural character. The Páramo de Chingaza, a high-altitude ecosystem vital for water regulation, lies to the south, influencing local climate patterns and providing crucial ecosystem services. Cómbita’s urban fabric is relatively compact, reflecting its historical development as a small agricultural and trading center. The urban–rural gradient is gradual, with agricultural activities seamlessly blending into the town’s periphery. While Cómbita itself lacks significant industrial zones, it benefits from its proximity to larger commercial centers in the Boyacá region. The Chicamocha River, though not directly adjacent, flows nearby, impacting local humidity and microclimates. The mountainous terrain significantly influences air circulation; valleys can trap pollutants, while higher elevations experience greater dispersion. Agricultural practices, particularly burning for land clearing (though increasingly regulated), and vehicle emissions from the limited road network, are the primary contributors to localized air quality concerns. The surrounding forests, however, generally act as a natural filter, mitigating some of the impact.

Cómbita’s air quality is intrinsically linked to its tropical highland climate, exhibiting a distinct wet and dry season pattern rather than the four traditional seasons. The dry season, typically spanning December to March, often sees a slight improvement in air quality due to reduced rainfall and lower humidity. However, this period can also experience temperature inversions, particularly in the early morning hours, where cold air settles in the valleys, trapping pollutants released from residential wood-burning stoves and vehicle emissions. Fog, common during these months, further exacerbates this issue by limiting dispersion. The wet season, from April to November, brings frequent rainfall, which naturally cleanses the atmosphere, washing away particulate matter and reducing overall pollution. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased soil erosion and runoff, potentially carrying dust and other contaminants into the air. Agricultural burning, though regulated, can still occur during the transition periods between seasons, contributing to short-term spikes in air pollution. Months like February and August, often experiencing a combination of temperature inversions and agricultural activity, are periods when sensitive individuals, such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, should limit prolonged outdoor exposure. During the wet season, while overall air quality is generally better, periods of intense rainfall can still trigger landslides and dust storms, impacting air quality locally. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation is crucial year-round.