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Luperón, nestled within the Cibao Norte region of the Dominican Republic at coordinates 19.9000, -70.9500, is a coastal town profoundly shaped by its geography. With a population of approximately 16,494, it occupies a unique position where the fertile Cibao Valley meets the Atlantic Ocean. The terrain is a blend of rolling hills descending towards the coastline, creating a natural funnel for air movement. This proximity to the ocean, specifically Samaná Bay, introduces significant sea breezes, which can both disperse and concentrate pollutants depending on prevailing wind patterns. Luperón’s historical significance as a port town means some localised industrial activity, primarily related to fishing and tourism, exists, though it’s less concentrated than in larger Dominican cities. Surrounding the town are extensive agricultural lands, particularly those dedicated to plantain, banana, and other tropical crops. The use of agricultural chemicals in these zones contributes to potential air quality concerns. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; moving inland quickly transitions from the town’s built environment to rural farmland. This gradient influences pollutant dispersion, with the town acting as a localised source and the surrounding areas offering some natural filtration, though susceptible to agricultural drift. The elevation is relatively low, increasing vulnerability to humidity and potential temperature inversions.

Luperón experiences a distinct wet and dry season rather than traditional four seasons. Air quality is generally better during the wet season (roughly May to November) due to increased rainfall which effectively scrubs the air of particulate matter and dust. The consistent Atlantic breezes during this period also aid in dispersion. However, high humidity can exacerbate respiratory issues. Pollution tends to peak during the dry season (December to April), when reduced rainfall allows pollutants from agricultural activities and localised traffic to accumulate. The Harmattan winds, blowing from the Sahara Desert, can occasionally transport significant amounts of dust, further degrading air quality during these months. February and March are typically the driest and dustiest months, making them less favourable for outdoor activity, particularly for individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the surface, can occur sporadically, trapping pollutants close to the ground. Fog, common in the mornings, can also contribute to localised pollutant concentrations. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during dry, dusty periods and monitor their health closely.