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Bartolomé Masó, nestled in the Granma province of Cuba, occupies a unique geographic position within the island’s southeastern region. The city is situated in a valley, surrounded by the Sierra Maestra mountains, a rugged and heavily forested terrain that significantly influences local air quality. At an elevation of approximately 250 meters, Bartolomé Masó benefits from some degree of natural ventilation, but the surrounding mountains can also trap pollutants during periods of atmospheric stability. The city lies roughly 20 kilometers inland from the Caribbean Sea, meaning direct marine influences on air composition are moderated, though sea breezes can occasionally contribute to salt aerosol concentrations. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with sugar cane and coffee plantations dominating the rural areas. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, introduces potential sources of particulate matter from field burning and fertilizer application. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city itself is compact, transitioning quickly to dense vegetation and mountainous terrain. Industrial activity is limited, but small-scale processing of agricultural products contributes to localised emissions. The valley’s topography, combined with prevailing wind patterns, dictates how pollutants disperse – or concentrate – within the urban area.

Bartolomé Masó experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing air quality. The dry season, spanning November to April, typically sees lower rainfall and increased dust suspension from agricultural lands, leading to elevated particulate matter concentrations. Stable atmospheric conditions during these months can exacerbate pollution, particularly in the valley bottom. February and March are often the driest months, and therefore potentially the worst for respiratory sensitivities. The wet season, from May to October, brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity, effectively scavenging pollutants from the air. However, increased moisture can also promote mold growth, impacting indoor air quality. August and September, coinciding with the peak of the hurricane season, can experience periods of intense rainfall and strong winds, offering temporary but significant air quality improvements. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near ground level. Sensitive individuals – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season and monitor their health closely. The prevailing easterly trade winds offer some relief, but their effectiveness is reduced during periods of atmospheric stability.