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Lorica, a municipality nestled within the Córdoba department of Colombia, occupies a significant position in the San Jorge River basin. Located at coordinates 9.2419, -75.8160, the city’s geography is defined by its low-lying terrain, typical of the Caribbean coastal plains. The elevation is relatively minimal, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. The San Jorge River, a major waterway, flows nearby, influencing local humidity and potentially contributing to localized fog formation, which can trap pollutants. Surrounding Lorica is a landscape dominated by cattle ranching and agricultural lands, particularly palm oil plantations, a significant economic driver for the region. This agricultural activity introduces potential sources of particulate matter from land preparation, fertilizer use, and biomass burning. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with the city centre transitioning quickly to rural landscapes. Lorica’s position within a river valley and the prevailing wind patterns can exacerbate pollution episodes, as air masses can become stagnant, concentrating emissions. The city’s growth, while moderate with a population of 52,771, is placing increasing demands on infrastructure and potentially contributing to vehicle emissions. Understanding this interplay of geography and land use is crucial for addressing air quality challenges.

Lorica experiences a bimodal rainfall pattern characteristic of the Caribbean coast of Colombia, rather than distinct seasons. The drier periods, typically from December to March and again from July to August, often coincide with increased agricultural activity, including land clearing and burning for pasture renewal. This leads to a peak in particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) concentrations during these months, exacerbated by lower humidity and reduced rainfall for atmospheric cleansing. Conversely, the wetter periods – April to June and September to November – generally see improved air quality due to rainfall washing away pollutants and higher humidity suppressing dust. Temperature inversions, common during the calmer, drier periods, trap pollutants near ground level, worsening conditions. February and March are often the most challenging months for respiratory health. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should limit strenuous outdoor activity during these times. The prevailing winds, generally from the northeast, can transport pollutants from agricultural areas into the city. Monitoring wind direction and agricultural practices is vital for predicting pollution episodes. November and December, with increased rainfall, offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activities.