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Santa Lucía Milpas Altas, nestled within the Sacatepéquez department of Guatemala, occupies a strategically important position in the Guatemalan Highlands. Located approximately 15 kilometers northwest of Guatemala City, it forms part of the broader metropolitan area, experiencing both its benefits and challenges. The city’s coordinates (14.5833, -90.6833) place it at an elevation of roughly 1,950 meters (6,400 feet) above sea level, contributing to a cooler climate compared to lower-lying regions. The surrounding landscape is characterized by steep, volcanic terrain, a legacy of the region’s geological history. This topography significantly influences air circulation patterns; valleys can trap pollutants, while higher elevations experience greater dispersion. Milpas Altas is surrounded by agricultural lands, primarily dedicated to coffee cultivation and maize farming, which can contribute to particulate matter through burning practices, particularly during land clearing and harvest seasons. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with the city transitioning quickly into agricultural zones and forested slopes. While not directly adjacent to major bodies of water, the nearby Suchitepéquez River basin influences local humidity and precipitation patterns. The proximity to Guatemala City, a major industrial and transportation hub, exposes Santa Lucía Milpas Altas to transboundary pollution, including vehicle emissions and industrial fallout. The city’s urban character is largely residential, with a mix of traditional Mayan architecture and more modern construction, contributing to a relatively low density urban footprint, but still susceptible to localized pollution from domestic sources.

Santa Lucía Milpas Altas experiences a tropical highland climate, exhibiting distinct wet and dry seasons rather than the four traditional seasons. The dry season, typically spanning November through April, often sees a noticeable increase in air quality concerns. Reduced rainfall leads to lower atmospheric moisture, which inhibits the natural cleansing effect of precipitation. Furthermore, temperature inversions are more frequent during this period, trapping pollutants closer to the ground, particularly in the valley areas. Agricultural burning, a common practice for land preparation, intensifies during the dry season, releasing significant amounts of particulate matter and contributing to haze. The wet season, from May to October, brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, generally leading to improved air quality as pollutants are washed from the atmosphere. However, periods of prolonged fog, common during the wet season, can also trap pollutants, creating localized pockets of poor air quality. Months like November and December, transitioning from dry to wet, often experience a peak in pollution due to a combination of lingering agricultural burning and stagnant air. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution periods, especially in the mornings. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable. The increased humidity during the wet season can exacerbate mold allergies, so maintaining dry indoor environments is important.