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Puerto Leguízamo, nestled within the Colombian Amazon in the Putumayo department, presents a unique geographic challenge for air quality. Situated at a low elevation of approximately 190 meters above sea level (-0.1939, -74.7806), the town lies along the Caquetá River, a major tributary of the Amazon. This riverine location contributes to high humidity and influences local wind patterns. The surrounding landscape is dominated by dense rainforest, transitioning into more fragmented forest and small-scale agricultural plots – primarily subsistence farming and coca cultivation – as one moves away from the immediate urban core. The urban-rural gradient is sharp; Puerto Leguízamo itself is a relatively small settlement, but it serves as a regional trading hub. This role brings increased motorized transport, including river traffic, contributing to localised emissions. The Amazon basin’s flat terrain limits atmospheric dispersion, meaning pollutants can accumulate, particularly during periods of calm weather. Deforestation, a significant issue in the Putumayo region, further exacerbates air quality concerns by reducing the forest’s natural air purification capacity and releasing particulate matter from burning vegetation. The proximity to the equator results in consistently warm temperatures and high rainfall, influencing pollutant behaviour.

Puerto Leguízamo experiences a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by two primary seasons: a wet season and a drier season, rather than traditional four seasons. Air quality generally deteriorates during the drier season (roughly June to November). Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, allowing pollutants from agricultural burning, motorized transport, and domestic wood-burning to linger. Calm winds during this period further trap these emissions. The wet season (December to May) typically brings improved air quality as frequent rainfall washes pollutants from the atmosphere. However, even during the wet season, localised pollution can occur due to ongoing deforestation and agricultural practices. Temperature inversions, though less common than in temperate climates, can still occur, trapping pollutants near the ground. November and December often see a spike in burning as land is cleared for the next planting season. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the drier months. Monitoring local fire reports and avoiding areas with visible smoke is crucial. The consistently high humidity can also exacerbate respiratory issues, requiring increased vigilance.