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Curumaní, nestled in the Cesar Department of Colombia, occupies a unique geographical position within the foothills of the Serranía del Perijá. Located at coordinates 9.2000, -73.5500, the town sits at an elevation of approximately 800 meters above sea level, influencing its climate and air quality. The surrounding landscape is characterised by a transition zone between the Andean mountains and the lower-lying plains of the Cesar region. This terrain creates localized wind patterns and potential for temperature inversions, trapping pollutants. Curumaní is primarily an agricultural centre, with significant cattle ranching and cultivation of crops like plantains, yuca, and maize dominating the surrounding areas. While not heavily industrialized, agricultural practices contribute to particulate matter through land preparation, burning of agricultural waste, and dust from unpaved roads. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; the town itself is relatively compact, quickly giving way to expansive agricultural lands. The proximity to the Perijá mountains influences rainfall patterns and can create orographic lift, affecting pollutant dispersion. The lack of substantial bodies of water nearby means limited evaporative cooling, potentially exacerbating heat-related pollution episodes. Understanding this interplay of topography, land use, and climate is crucial for assessing and mitigating air quality challenges in Curumaní.

Curumaní experiences a bimodal rainfall pattern, defining its ‘seasons’ rather than traditional four-season cycles. The drier periods, roughly from December to February and July to August, coincide with increased dust and particulate matter. Agricultural activities, including land clearing and harvesting, are more intense during these times, releasing significant amounts of PM10 and PM2.5. Lower humidity also means pollutants remain suspended longer. February and July are generally less favourable for outdoor activity for those with respiratory sensitivities. The wetter seasons, from March to June and September to November, bring increased rainfall which helps to scrub the air, reducing particulate matter concentrations. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of mold and fungal spores, impacting air quality for allergy sufferers. Temperature inversions, common in the mornings throughout the year due to the valley location, can trap pollutants near ground level, particularly during calmer periods. November, with its transition to the wetter season, often sees a temporary increase in humidity-related pollutants. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during drier periods and monitor their health closely.