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San Jorge, nestled within the department of Zacapa, Guatemala, occupies a strategically important location within the country’s eastern lowlands. Situated at approximately 14.9333° latitude and -89.6000° longitude, the town rests at an elevation of roughly 280 meters (919 feet) above sea level, placing it within a transitional zone between the mountainous highlands and the flatter coastal plains. The surrounding landscape is dominated by lush tropical rainforest and agricultural lands, primarily dedicated to coffee, banana, and sugarcane cultivation – key economic drivers for the region. The Motagua River, a significant waterway in Guatemala, flows nearby, influencing local climate patterns and providing a source of water for the community. San Jorge’s urban character is that of a small, developing town, exhibiting a gradual urban–rural gradient as one moves outwards. While a central commercial area exists, much of the surrounding area is characterized by smaller settlements and agricultural plots. The proximity to larger urban centers like Zacapa city, approximately 20 kilometers to the west, means San Jorge is part of a wider regional economic network. The terrain is gently rolling, facilitating agricultural practices but also potentially contributing to localized air stagnation under certain meteorological conditions. The prevailing winds, often influenced by the surrounding forests and river valley, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants, impacting the town’s air quality. The region's humid subtropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons, further modulates these patterns.

San Jorge’s air quality experiences a pronounced seasonal cycle dictated by Guatemala’s tropical climate. The wet season, typically spanning from May to October, brings frequent rainfall and increased humidity. While the rain naturally helps to cleanse the atmosphere by removing particulate matter, the increased agricultural activity during this period, including burning of fields for planting, can introduce significant amounts of smoke and pollutants. The dry season, from November to April, presents a different set of challenges. Reduced rainfall leads to lower atmospheric moisture, which can exacerbate the effects of any existing pollution. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler, drier months, trap pollutants near the ground, leading to periods of poorer air quality. Fog, particularly in the mornings, can also contribute to this phenomenon by reducing atmospheric mixing. Agricultural burning, though ideally regulated, often continues into the early dry season. Wind patterns are generally more stable during the dry season, reducing the dispersion of pollutants. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of fog or temperature inversions. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, although vigilance regarding agricultural smoke is advised. The intensity of the monsoon influences the overall air quality, with stronger monsoon periods bringing more frequent cleansing rains. Local weather patterns, influenced by the Motagua River and surrounding topography, can create microclimates that further impact air quality variations within San Jorge.