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Chapantongo, Hidalgo, nestled within the heart of Mexico’s central highlands, presents a unique geographic profile significantly influencing its air quality. Situated at approximately 20.2833° latitude and -99.4000° longitude, the town rests at an elevation of around 2,150 meters (7,050 feet) above sea level, placing it firmly within a high-altitude plateau environment. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills and valleys, typical of the Hidalgo state’s terrain, largely dominated by agricultural land and scattered rural communities. Chapantongo’s position within the Mezquital Valley contributes to a localized microclimate, often experiencing temperature inversions, particularly during cooler months. While not directly adjacent to major bodies of water, the nearby El Quelite River provides a limited moisture source, impacting humidity levels and potentially affecting pollutant dispersion. The town’s urban character is primarily rural, with a small, concentrated population of 12,967. The urban–rural gradient is gradual, transitioning quickly into agricultural fields and smaller settlements. Importantly, Chapantongo’s proximity to the industrial belt surrounding the greater Pachuca-Real del Monte area, though not immediately adjacent, means it can be affected by transported pollutants. Agricultural practices, including the burning of crop residue, also contribute to localized air quality challenges, especially during harvest seasons. The valley’s topography can trap pollutants, exacerbating issues during periods of stagnant air.

Chapantongo’s air quality exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by its highland climate. The dry season, typically spanning from November to April, often presents the most challenging conditions. During these months, cooler temperatures frequently lead to the formation of temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air (and pollutants) near the ground. This inversion layer inhibits vertical mixing, causing pollutants to accumulate. Agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and residue disposal, intensifies during this period, further degrading air quality. The lack of rainfall also means fewer opportunities for pollutant washout. Conversely, the wet season, from May to October, generally brings improved air quality due to increased rainfall, which naturally cleanses the atmosphere. Higher humidity can also influence the chemical reactions of pollutants. Fog, common during the cooler mornings of the dry season, can trap pollutants close to the ground, creating localized pockets of poor air quality. The months of December and January are often the most problematic, with persistent inversions and agricultural burning. Individuals with respiratory conditions, such as asthma, and the elderly should exercise caution during these periods, limiting outdoor exertion and monitoring for symptoms. Children are also particularly vulnerable and should be kept indoors when air quality is visibly poor. During the wet season, while overall air quality improves, occasional periods of stagnant air can still lead to localized pollution events, so vigilance remains important.