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Guapí, nestled in the department of Cauca, Colombia, occupies a strategically important location within the Andean foothills, approximately 220 kilometers southwest of Bogotá. Situated at coordinates 2.5703° N, 77.8856° W, the town’s elevation averages around 1,750 meters (5,742 feet) above sea level, placing it firmly within a temperate highland climate zone. The surrounding landscape is characterized by a mosaic of rolling hills, steep slopes, and dense cloud forests, typical of the Andean region. The Río Guapí, a significant tributary of the Magdalena River, flows nearby, influencing local humidity and microclimates. Guapí’s urban character is that of a regional hub, serving agricultural communities and supporting a modest industrial sector, primarily focused on processing agricultural products like coffee and sugarcane. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; the town transitions quickly into agricultural lands and forested areas. This proximity to agricultural zones means that seasonal burning practices, common for land clearing and crop residue management, can significantly impact local air quality. Furthermore, the town’s location within a valley can exacerbate air pollution episodes, as topography can trap pollutants and limit dispersion. The prevailing winds, often channeled through the surrounding hills, play a crucial role in determining the movement of airborne particles and gases. The region’s geological composition, with volcanic soils and underlying rock formations, can also influence the release of certain particulate matter into the atmosphere.

Guapí experiences a tropical savanna climate, exhibiting distinct wet and dry seasons rather than the four traditional seasons. The dry season, typically spanning from December to March, often brings clearer skies and reduced rainfall, but also heightened air quality concerns. Reduced precipitation means fewer opportunities for atmospheric cleansing through rainfall washout, and the lack of cloud cover can lead to increased solar radiation, promoting photochemical smog formation if precursor pollutants are present. Temperature inversions, common during these months, trap cooler air near the ground, preventing the vertical dispersion of pollutants released from agricultural burning and local industries. The wet season, from April to November, generally sees improved air quality due to frequent rainfall and increased humidity, which help to remove particulate matter from the atmosphere. However, periods of intense rainfall can also lead to increased soil erosion and the suspension of dust particles, temporarily degrading air quality. Months like June and July, coinciding with the peak of the rainy season, often offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activities. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly when agricultural burning is prevalent. Monitoring local weather patterns and avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during periods of stagnant air or visible haze is advisable. The interplay of wind patterns and rainfall dictates the overall air quality profile, with the dry season posing the most significant challenges for respiratory health.