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El Quetzal, nestled within the San Marcos department of Guatemala, occupies a geographically significant position in the western highlands. Located at approximately 14.7667° latitude and -91.8167° longitude, the city sits at an elevation of roughly 2,100 meters (6,889 feet) above sea level, placing it firmly within a mountainous terrain. This high altitude significantly influences local climate and, consequently, air quality. The surrounding landscape is dominated by steep slopes, dense cloud forests, and agricultural terraces, characteristic of the Guatemalan highlands. El Quetzal’s proximity to the Sierra Madre de Gualán, a range known for its biodiversity, contributes to a relatively rural setting, though the urban–rural gradient is tightening as the city grows. The region’s economy is largely agrarian, with coffee cultivation being a dominant activity in the surrounding valleys. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to particulate matter pollution, particularly during harvest and processing seasons. While El Quetzal lacks immediate proximity to major rivers or lakes, the frequent rainfall characteristic of the region impacts atmospheric moisture and influences the dispersion of pollutants. The city’s location, while offering stunning views and a temperate climate, also presents challenges regarding air quality due to the topography which can trap pollutants and the increasing pressure from agricultural practices and limited industrial activity within the broader San Marcos region.

El Quetzal experiences a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting its air quality profile. The dry season, typically spanning November through April, often sees a slight improvement in air quality due to increased wind speeds and solar radiation, which aids in pollutant dispersion. However, this period also witnesses increased agricultural burning for land clearing and crop residue removal, leading to spikes in particulate matter. The wet season, from May to October, brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity. While the rain naturally washes some pollutants from the atmosphere, persistent fog and temperature inversions, common during the early morning hours, can trap pollutants near the ground, particularly in the valley areas surrounding El Quetzal. These inversions prevent vertical mixing, concentrating emissions from residential wood-burning stoves and limited local industries. Months like July and August, coinciding with the peak of the rainy season, can experience periods of reduced visibility and elevated particulate concentrations due to these stagnant atmospheric conditions. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during these periods, limiting outdoor exertion and monitoring local air quality information. The combination of agricultural practices and meteorological conditions creates a dynamic air quality environment, requiring vigilance and proactive measures to mitigate potential health impacts. The cooler temperatures during the dry season can also exacerbate respiratory issues for some individuals.