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Vicente Guerrero, Baja California, nestles within a dynamic and geographically complex region of northwestern Mexico. Situated at approximately 30.7264° N, -115.9903° W, the city’s location is pivotal to understanding its air quality challenges. The surrounding landscape is characterized by a transition zone between the arid Sonoran Desert and the coastal plains bordering the Gulf of California, also known as the Sea of Cortez. This proximity to the Gulf introduces a maritime influence, often bringing moisture and breezes, but also potential for coastal fog and humidity. The terrain is gently undulating, with elevations ranging from sea level to modest hills, which can influence local wind patterns and pollutant dispersion. Vicente Guerrero lies within the broader Ensenada-Tijuana metropolitan area, experiencing a gradual urban–rural gradient as one moves inland. To the east, agricultural zones, primarily focused on fruit and vegetable cultivation, contribute to potential emissions from pesticide use and agricultural burning, particularly during land preparation. To the west, the industrial belt of Tijuana, a major manufacturing hub, represents a significant source of pollutants, with industrial emissions frequently impacting air quality in Vicente Guerrero. The city’s position within this corridor means it’s susceptible to transboundary pollution, with prevailing winds often carrying contaminants from Tijuana. The climate is arid subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters, further impacting atmospheric stability and pollutant behaviour. The relatively small population of 12,829 suggests a primarily residential character, though its integration within the larger metropolitan area means it shares in the broader regional environmental burdens.

Vicente Guerrero’s air quality exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the interplay of meteorological factors and regional pollution sources. The warmer months, typically from May to September, are often characterized by increased temperatures and reduced precipitation, leading to atmospheric stability and a tendency for temperature inversions. These inversions trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating air quality concerns, particularly those originating from Tijuana’s industrial sector and agricultural practices inland. During these months, stagnant air conditions are more frequent, limiting pollutant dispersal. Conversely, the cooler months (October to April) generally bring more frequent breezes from the Gulf of California, aiding in the dispersion of pollutants. However, coastal fog, common during the winter, can also trap moisture and particulate matter, creating localized air quality issues. The spring (March-April) and autumn (September-October) months represent transitional periods, with variable wind patterns and temperature fluctuations. Agricultural burning, a common practice in the surrounding areas to clear land for planting, tends to peak during the spring months, contributing to elevated particulate matter levels. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during periods of stagnant air and elevated particulate matter, limiting outdoor exertion and monitoring local air quality reports. While the coastal breezes generally improve air quality, fog events can significantly degrade it, necessitating vigilance and adaptive behaviour.