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Momil, nestled within the Department of Córdoba in Colombia, occupies a geographically significant position at coordinates 9.2333°N, -75.6833°W. The town’s relatively low elevation, typical of the Caribbean coastal plain, contributes to a warm, humid climate. Momil is situated amidst a landscape transitioning between the foothills of the San Jerónimo Mountains and the flatter lands approaching the Cauca River basin. This proximity to both mountainous terrain and a major river system influences local weather patterns and, consequently, air quality. The surrounding area is predominantly agricultural, with significant cultivation of oil palm, bananas, and other tropical crops. While Momil itself is a smaller urban centre with a population of approximately 16,264, its location within a broader agricultural region means it’s susceptible to airborne particulate matter from land preparation, harvesting, and the use of agricultural chemicals. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural lands immediately bordering the town. Limited heavy industry within Momil itself suggests that the primary air quality concerns stem from agricultural practices, biomass burning (for land clearing or cooking), and vehicle emissions, exacerbated by the region’s generally stable atmospheric conditions. The lack of significant wind corridors can trap pollutants, particularly during drier periods.

Momil experiences a bimodal rainfall pattern characteristic of the Caribbean coast of Colombia, rather than distinct seasons. The wetter periods generally run from April to June and September to November, offering periods of natural air cleansing as rainfall scrubs the atmosphere. However, the drier periods – December to March and July to August – are when air quality tends to decline. During these drier months, agricultural burning increases significantly for land preparation, releasing substantial particulate matter and other pollutants. Temperature inversions, common in the mornings, can trap these pollutants near ground level, worsening conditions. The prevailing winds, typically from the northeast, can transport pollutants from agricultural areas directly over Momil. Sensitive individuals, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, should limit strenuous outdoor activity during these drier periods, particularly in the mornings. The wettest months, while bringing increased humidity, generally offer the best air quality due to atmospheric washing. Fog can occasionally form during the transition periods, potentially trapping pollutants locally, but this is less consistent than the impact of agricultural burning. Monitoring local conditions is crucial, as short-term spikes in pollution can occur even during wetter periods.