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Centro Habana, nestled within the sprawling metropolis of Havana, Cuba, occupies a strategically significant position on the island’s northern coast. Located at approximately 23.1348° N, 82.3701° W, the district’s geography is inextricably linked to Havana’s broader urban landscape and its relationship with the surrounding environment. The terrain is predominantly flat, a characteristic of Havana’s coastal plain, facilitating dense urban development. Centro Habana sits between the Malecón, Havana’s iconic seawall, and the more residential areas to the south, placing it within a zone heavily influenced by maritime conditions. The proximity to the Gulf of Mexico moderates temperatures but also introduces saline aerosols and potential for coastal fog, impacting air quality. To the east, the Almendares River provides a natural boundary, though its water quality and potential for contributing to localized pollution are factors. Beyond the immediate urban core, the landscape transitions to rolling hills and agricultural zones, primarily sugarcane fields, which, during harvest seasons, can contribute to particulate matter through burning practices. The urban–rural gradient is relatively abrupt, with agricultural activity concentrated further inland. Centro Habana’s location within a major port city means it’s subject to emissions from shipping and port operations. The district’s dense population and aging infrastructure, including vehicle fleets, further compound air quality challenges, creating a complex interplay of natural and anthropogenic influences.

Havana’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly influencing air quality in Centro Habana. The dry season, typically spanning November to April, often sees clearer skies and reduced rainfall, but can also lead to stagnant air conditions. Temperature inversions, where cooler air is trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, are more frequent during these months, hindering the dispersion of pollutants and leading to localized build-ups, particularly in the densely populated areas. Dust from the Sahara, occasionally transported across the Atlantic, can also impact air quality during this period. The wet season, from May to October, brings increased rainfall and higher humidity. While rain helps to cleanse the atmosphere by removing particulate matter, it can also lead to increased levels of ozone, a secondary pollutant formed through photochemical reactions driven by sunlight and humidity. The increased humidity can also exacerbate respiratory issues. August and September, coinciding with hurricane season, often experience periods of intense rainfall and strong winds, temporarily improving air quality by flushing out pollutants. However, storm surges and flooding can release contaminants from industrial sites and sewage systems, posing a short-term health risk. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during periods of stagnant air in the dry season and be mindful of potential flood-related contaminants during the wet season. Outdoor activities are generally more favourable during the wetter months, but vigilance regarding ozone levels is advised.