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Chalchuapa, nestled in the department of Santa Ana, El Salvador, occupies a strategically important position within the Central Volcanic Mountain Range. Located at approximately 13.98° N, 89.68° W and an elevation of around 650 meters (2,133 feet) above sea level, the city benefits from a relatively temperate climate influenced by its highland setting. The surrounding landscape is dominated by volcanic slopes, fertile valleys, and coffee plantations, characteristic of El Salvador’s ‘coffee belt.’ Chalchuapa sits on the western edge of the Zapotitán-Chaparrate volcanic chain, with the imposing Volcán Izalco visible on clear days, a constant reminder of the region’s geological activity. This proximity to volcanic soils contributes to the area’s agricultural productivity, particularly in coffee, sugarcane, and maize cultivation. The urban fabric of Chalchuapa is a blend of traditional colonial architecture and modern development, exhibiting a gradual urban–rural gradient as one moves outwards. While the city itself is a significant population center, it’s surrounded by smaller agricultural communities. The lack of major rivers directly traversing the city means water sources are primarily reliant on rainfall and groundwater, impacting potential for atmospheric moisture and associated pollutant deposition. The absence of large-scale industrial zones within Chalchuapa itself mitigates some industrial pollution risks, though agricultural practices and vehicle emissions remain key factors influencing local air quality. The terrain, with its slopes and valleys, can also influence air circulation patterns, potentially trapping pollutants in certain areas during periods of low wind.

Chalchuapa’s tropical savanna climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly impacting air quality throughout the year. The dry season, typically spanning November to April, often sees a noticeable increase in particulate matter. Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, and the prevailing winds, frequently light and variable, can lead to stagnation, allowing pollutants to accumulate. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler, drier months, trap cooler air near the ground, further hindering vertical mixing and exacerbating the concentration of pollutants. Agricultural burning, a traditional practice for land clearing and crop residue disposal, is most prevalent during this period, significantly contributing to smoke and particulate pollution. The wet season, from May to October, brings frequent rainfall and increased humidity, naturally washing pollutants from the atmosphere and generally improving air quality. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased soil erosion, potentially carrying dust and particulate matter into the air. Fog, particularly in the mornings during the transition periods between seasons, can also trap pollutants close to the ground. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during agricultural burning periods. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, although periods of heavy rain and associated flooding can temporarily degrade air quality due to resuspended sediments. Monitoring local weather patterns and agricultural practices is crucial for anticipating air quality fluctuations.