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Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, occupies a strategic position on the southeastern coast of the Caribbean island of Hispaniola, nestled along the Ozama River where it meets the Caribbean Sea. This coastal metropolis, with its coordinates at 18.4764°N, -69.8933°W, sits at a low elevation averaging just 14 meters above sea level, creating a flat urban expanse that stretches inland with minimal topographical relief. The city's geography profoundly influences its air quality: its coastal location typically benefits from sea breezes that help disperse pollutants, but the surrounding landscape—including the Cordillera Oriental mountains to the north and east—can trap emissions when wind patterns stagnate. Santo Domingo's urban character is dense and sprawling, with a population exceeding 1.1 million in the city proper and over 3 million in the metropolitan area, leading to intense vehicular traffic, industrial activity in zones like the Herrera industrial belt, and construction dust as primary pollution sources. The Ozama River, while historically significant, suffers from pollution that can contribute to localised air quality issues. The urban–rural gradient shows rapid transition from the city centre to agricultural zones producing sugarcane and other crops, which occasionally contribute biomass burning emissions. Proximity to the Caribbean Sea generally moderates pollution through marine air masses, but during calm periods, the city's bowl-like terrain can foster pollutant accumulation, particularly from the congested transportation network and energy generation reliant on fossil fuels.

Santo Domingo experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons that shape its air quality patterns throughout the year. During the dry season from December to April, pollution tends to peak due to reduced rainfall and occasional temperature inversions that trap pollutants close to the ground; this period sees increased dust from construction and roadways, coupled with higher emissions from vehicles and industry. Sensitive groups, such as those with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activities on calm, sunny days in these months, especially in high-traffic areas. The wet season from May to November brings relief through frequent afternoon thunderstorms and higher humidity, which help wash pollutants from the air and enhance dispersion via stronger trade winds. However, tropical storms or hurricanes, though rare direct hits, can stir up debris and mould spores, temporarily worsening air quality. The transition months of May and November often offer the best conditions for outdoor activities, with balanced rainfall and breezes. Throughout the year, sea breezes from the Caribbean provide natural ventilation, but during periods of low wind, urban heat island effects can intensify pollution buildup. Health guidance emphasises monitoring local air quality reports, avoiding strenuous exercise near busy roads during peak hours, and using air purifiers indoors when pollution levels rise, particularly for children, the elderly, and individuals with asthma or heart disease.