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Sumpango, nestled within the department of Sacatepéquez, Guatemala, occupies a strategically important position in the Guatemalan Highlands. Located approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Guatemala City, it sits at a considerable elevation of 2,150 meters (7,050 feet) above sea level, contributing significantly to its climate and air quality dynamics. The city’s terrain is characterized by steep slopes and valleys, a typical feature of the volcanic landscape that defines this region. Sumpango is surrounded by a patchwork of agricultural land, primarily dedicated to maize and bean cultivation, interspersed with coffee plantations – a vital economic driver for the area. To the east, the sprawling urban expanse of Guatemala City exerts a considerable influence, creating an urban–rural gradient where the city’s air quality is inevitably impacted by regional pollution sources. The surrounding landscape is dominated by rolling hills and distant volcanic peaks, including the Sierra de las Minas, which can influence wind patterns and trap pollutants. While Sumpango lacks direct proximity to major bodies of water, the nearby Suchitepéquez department provides a degree of regional hydrological influence. The city’s location within a densely populated region, coupled with its proximity to industrial zones within Guatemala City and the agricultural activities in the surrounding valleys, creates a complex interplay of factors that shape its air quality profile. The elevation, in particular, can exacerbate pollution issues due to reduced atmospheric mixing and potential temperature inversions.

Sumpango’s tropical highland climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning November through April, often witnesses a concerning increase in particulate matter. Reduced rainfall means less natural cleansing of the atmosphere, and the prevailing winds, frequently light and variable, struggle to disperse pollutants effectively. Temperature inversions, common during these cooler, drier months, trap emissions close to the ground, intensifying the impact of residential wood burning for cooking and heating, as well as agricultural practices like controlled burns for land clearing. The wet season, from May to October, brings increased rainfall, which naturally washes pollutants from the air, leading to a noticeable improvement in air quality. However, periods of heavy fog, particularly in the mornings, can temporarily reduce visibility and trap moisture-borne pollutants. During the transition months (April/May and October/November), fluctuating weather patterns can lead to unpredictable air quality episodes. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure and avoiding strenuous activity, especially during periods of stagnant air. Agricultural workers should be particularly mindful of potential exposure to smoke from agricultural burns. While the wet season generally offers respite, vigilance is still advised, especially during foggy conditions, as these can exacerbate the effects of existing pollutants.