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Santa Rosa de Viterbo, nestled within the department of Boyacá, Colombia, occupies a strategically significant position in the Andean foothills. Located at approximately 5.8833° latitude and -72.9833° longitude, the town sits at an elevation of around 2,100 meters (6,889 feet) above sea level, placing it firmly within the cooler, high-altitude climate zone characteristic of the Colombian Andes. The surrounding landscape is dominated by rolling hills, steep slopes, and patches of cloud forest, typical of the Eastern Cordillera. This terrain significantly influences local air circulation patterns; valleys can trap pollutants, while the slopes can channel winds, sometimes dispersing them but also potentially concentrating them in specific areas. The town’s urban character is primarily rural, with a noticeable urban–rural gradient extending outwards into agricultural lands. Boyacá is a major agricultural region, and Santa Rosa de Viterbo is surrounded by farms cultivating crops like potatoes, maize, and beans, alongside livestock grazing. While large-scale industrial activity is limited within the immediate vicinity, the proximity to larger towns and cities in Boyacá and Norte de Santander means that some industrial emissions and vehicular traffic contribute to the regional air quality. The town’s relative isolation, while preserving its rural charm, also means that natural air cleansing processes, such as rainfall, can be less effective at removing pollutants compared to more densely populated areas with greater atmospheric mixing. The lack of major waterways directly adjacent to the town means humidity levels are generally lower, which can affect particulate matter dispersion.

Santa Rosa de Viterbo experiences a tropical highland climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons rather than the four traditional seasons. The dry season, typically spanning December to March, often sees a noticeable increase in air quality concerns. Reduced rainfall means fewer opportunities for natural pollutant washout, and the lower humidity can lead to increased concentrations of particulate matter, particularly dust from agricultural activities and unpaved roads. Temperature inversions, common during these months, trap cooler air and pollutants in the valleys surrounding the town, exacerbating the issue. Conversely, the wet season (April to November) brings frequent rainfall, which effectively cleanses the atmosphere, leading to improved air quality. However, periods of intense rainfall can also mobilize soil and dust, temporarily increasing particulate matter levels. Fog, a frequent occurrence during the cooler months, can also contribute to reduced visibility and the concentration of pollutants near ground level. During the dry season, sensitive groups like children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions should limit prolonged outdoor activity, especially during the morning hours when temperature inversions are most prevalent. The increased dust from agricultural practices necessitates the use of masks during fieldwork or travel on unpaved roads. The wet season generally offers a more favorable environment for outdoor activities, although vigilance regarding potential flooding and landslides is always advised. Understanding these seasonal patterns is crucial for managing potential health risks associated with air quality fluctuations in Santa Rosa de Viterbo.