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Caibarién, a coastal city in the Villa Clara province of Cuba, occupies a unique geographical position on the north-central coast. Situated at 22.5158°N, -79.4722°W, the city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the low-lying coastal plains. The elevation is minimal, contributing to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. Caibarién is nestled within the Sabana-Camagüey archipelago, a network of cays and islands extending northwards into the Atlantic Ocean, with the renowned Cay Santa Maria just offshore. This proximity to the ocean influences local weather patterns, bringing consistent sea breezes. The city’s urban character is a blend of traditional Cuban architecture and more modern developments, reflecting its history as a fishing and port town. Surrounding Caibarién are agricultural lands, primarily dedicated to sugarcane and citrus cultivation, with some livestock farming. While not a major industrial hub, the presence of processing facilities for agricultural products and a fishing fleet contribute to localised emissions. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, transitioning quickly from the city centre to agricultural areas and then to the coastal ecosystems. This geographical setting, combined with prevailing wind patterns, dictates how pollutants are distributed and concentrated within the city, impacting air quality.

Caibarién experiences a distinct wet and dry season rather than traditional four seasons. Air quality generally improves during the wet season (May to October) due to increased rainfall which effectively washes particulate matter from the atmosphere. However, high humidity can also trap pollutants closer to the ground. The dry season (November to April) typically sees poorer air quality. The trade winds, dominant throughout the year, play a crucial role, often dispersing pollutants offshore, but can also bring in Saharan dust plumes, significantly impacting visibility and respiratory health. January and February are often the driest months, coinciding with increased agricultural burning for sugarcane harvest, leading to spikes in particulate matter. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler, drier months, can trap pollutants near ground level, exacerbating air quality issues. November through March are generally less favourable for outdoor activity for those with respiratory sensitivities. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with asthma, should limit prolonged outdoor exposure during these periods. Monitoring wind direction is key; onshore winds will bring pollutants inland, while offshore winds offer temporary relief. Fog, particularly in the early mornings during the dry season, can also concentrate pollutants.