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San Luis, nestled within the Ozama province of the Dominican Republic, occupies a geographically significant position within the island’s southern region. Located at approximately 18.5473° latitude and -69.8019° longitude, the city’s terrain is characterized by a gently sloping landscape transitioning from the coastal plains towards the interior highlands. Its proximity to the Ozama River, a vital waterway for the island, influences local microclimates and contributes to the region’s agricultural productivity. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of small-scale agriculture, primarily sugarcane and tropical fruits, interspersed with pockets of remnant dry forest. This agricultural activity, while economically important, can contribute to localized air pollution through the burning of fields, particularly during harvest seasons. San Luis’s urban character is that of a developing municipality, exhibiting a gradual urban–rural gradient as one moves outwards from the central core. The city’s elevation, relatively low compared to the mountainous interior, limits dispersion of pollutants, especially during periods of stagnant air. The Ozama province itself is part of a broader industrial belt along the southern coast, though San Luis itself is less directly impacted than larger urban centers like Santo Domingo. Prevailing trade winds generally blow from the east, influencing the transport of pollutants, but their effectiveness in dispersing them is often hampered by the island’s topography and the frequency of temperature inversions, especially during the drier months. The coastal location also means the city is susceptible to sea breezes, which can temporarily improve air quality but also carry marine aerosols.

San Luis experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, significantly impacting air quality patterns. The dry season, typically spanning from December to April, often sees a noticeable increase in particulate matter. This is largely attributable to agricultural burning practices as farmers prepare fields for the next planting cycle. The lack of rainfall during this period also reduces the natural cleansing effect of precipitation, allowing pollutants to accumulate. Temperature inversions are more frequent during the dry season, trapping emissions close to the ground and exacerbating air quality concerns. Conversely, the wet season (May to November) brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, which naturally washes away pollutants and improves air quality. However, heavy rainfall events can also lead to increased levels of mold and fungal spores, impacting respiratory health. The intensity of the wet season varies year to year, with stronger El Niño events often associated with drier conditions and potentially poorer air quality. Wind patterns also play a crucial role; periods of calm winds, common during the transition months, can lead to stagnant air and localized pollution build-up. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly in areas near agricultural lands. Limiting outdoor exertion during midday heat and avoiding exposure to smoke from agricultural fires are advisable. The shoulder months (April/May and November/December) often offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activities, with a balance of rainfall and moderate temperatures.