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Dajabón, nestled in the Cibao Noroeste region of the Dominican Republic, occupies a geographically significant position bordering Haiti. Located at approximately 19.5667° N, 71.7100° W, the city sits within a broad, fertile valley characterized by gently rolling plains. Its elevation, around 180 meters (590 feet) above sea level, contributes to a relatively mild climate, but also influences atmospheric stability. The surrounding landscape is dominated by agricultural lands – primarily sugarcane and livestock farming – which represent a major source of potential air pollutants. To the north, the Cordillera Central mountain range provides a partial barrier, influencing wind patterns and occasionally trapping pollutants. The proximity to the Massacre River (Río Massacre), forming the border with Haiti, impacts local humidity and can contribute to fog formation, particularly during the cooler months. Dajabón’s urban character is that of a developing regional hub, with a mix of residential areas, commercial zones, and agricultural processing facilities. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural activities quickly dominating the landscape beyond the city limits. The lack of extensive industrial belts within Dajabón itself mitigates some pollution risks, however, transboundary pollution from Haiti, particularly related to agricultural burning and informal industrial activities, is a recurring concern. The valley’s topography, combined with prevailing wind patterns, can lead to localized air quality issues, especially during periods of stagnant air.

Dajabón’s tropical climate dictates a wet and dry season cycle, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, roughly from December to April, often sees increased particulate matter concentrations. This is largely due to agricultural burning practices employed to clear land for planting, a common, though often unregulated, method. Reduced rainfall during this period also limits the natural cleansing effect of precipitation, allowing pollutants to persist. Temperature inversions, where cooler air is trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, are more frequent during the cooler, drier months, further exacerbating the problem by preventing vertical mixing and trapping pollutants near the ground. The wet season, from May to November, generally brings improved air quality due to increased rainfall, which washes pollutants from the atmosphere. However, heavy rainfall events can also lead to increased levels of mold and fungal spores, impacting respiratory health. Fog, common during the transition months (October-November), can trap pollutants and reduce visibility. During the dry season, particularly February and March, sensitive groups like children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions should limit prolonged outdoor activity, especially during the morning hours when burning is most prevalent. The wet season, while generally cleaner, requires vigilance regarding potential mold exposure following heavy rains. Consistent monitoring of local conditions and adherence to public health advisories are crucial for mitigating air quality risks throughout the year.