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Puerto Salgar, nestled in the department of Cundinamarca, Colombia, occupies a strategically important position within the Andean foothills, approximately 60 kilometers east of Bogotá. Its coordinates, 5.5000° N, -74.5833° W, place it at an elevation of roughly 2,750 meters (9,022 feet) above sea level, contributing to a cooler climate compared to lower-lying regions. The town’s geography is characterized by a gently sloping terrain transitioning from the higher Andean plateau towards the Magdalena River valley. This valley, a vital agricultural zone, lies to the east, influencing local land use and potential sources of air pollutants. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of rolling hills, pastures, and small-scale agricultural plots, primarily dedicated to crops like maize and sugarcane. The proximity to the Magdalena River, Colombia’s longest river, provides a crucial water source but also introduces the potential for humidity and fog, which can trap pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. Puerto Salgar’s urban character is that of a rapidly developing municipality, experiencing growth driven by its location along key transportation routes and its role as a regional commercial hub. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural activities dominating the immediate periphery. Industrial activity, though not extensive, is present, primarily related to processing agricultural products and supporting the regional economy. The valley setting, combined with the elevation and surrounding agricultural and industrial zones, creates a complex interplay of factors that significantly influence air quality patterns in Puerto Salgar.

Puerto Salgar’s tropical savanna climate (Aw) dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly impacting air quality throughout the year. The dry season, typically spanning December to March, often sees a relative improvement in air quality due to increased wind speeds and solar radiation, which help disperse pollutants. However, this period can also experience periods of stagnant air, particularly when high-pressure systems dominate, leading to localized pollution episodes. The wet season, from April to November, is characterized by frequent rainfall and increased humidity. While rain naturally helps to cleanse the atmosphere, the increased humidity can exacerbate the formation of ground-level ozone, a secondary pollutant formed through photochemical reactions. Fog, common during the wet season, traps pollutants near the ground, intensifying their impact. Agricultural burning, a common practice during the transition periods between seasons (particularly in March and September), contributes significantly to particulate matter pollution. During these months, visibility can be severely reduced, and respiratory irritation is likely. Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, children, and the elderly should exercise caution and limit outdoor activity during periods of agricultural burning and persistent fog. The cooler temperatures during the higher elevation also contribute to temperature inversions, especially during the dry season, which can trap pollutants close to the ground. Overall, while the wet season brings some cleansing rain, the combination of humidity, fog, and agricultural practices creates a complex air quality profile requiring careful monitoring and mitigation strategies.