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Atotonilco el Alto, Jalisco, nestled within the broader Guadalajara metropolitan area, occupies a geographically significant position in the central highlands of Mexico. Located at approximately 20.53° N, 102.50° W and an elevation of around 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) above sea level, the city’s terrain is characterized by gently sloping hills and valleys, typical of the Trans-Mexican Neovolcanic Belt. This highland setting influences local air circulation patterns. The surrounding landscape is a mix of agricultural land – primarily maize and agave cultivation – and increasingly, peri-urban development as Guadalajara expands. To the west, the Sierra de los Altos mountains provide a partial barrier, potentially trapping pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. While Atotonilco el Alto itself lacks direct proximity to major bodies of water, it draws water from regional aquifers and is within reach of the Rio Santiago basin, impacting regional hydrological cycles. The urban-rural gradient is noticeable; the city exhibits a transition from denser residential areas towards the periphery, where agricultural activities and smaller settlements prevail. The proximity to Guadalajara, a major industrial and commercial hub, means Atotonilco el Alto is susceptible to the impacts of regional industrial emissions and vehicular traffic, contributing to its air quality profile. The valley setting, combined with the surrounding topography, can exacerbate pollution episodes, particularly during periods of stagnant air.

Atotonilco el Alto experiences a distinct wet and dry season pattern, significantly influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from November to April, is often characterized by lower rainfall and increased sunshine, but also by a greater propensity for temperature inversions. These inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, can effectively ‘cap’ pollutants, leading to their accumulation. Agricultural burning, a common practice in the surrounding rural areas during this period to clear fields for planting, contributes significantly to particulate matter pollution. The dry winds, when they do occur, can briefly disperse pollutants, but the overall effect is often a build-up. Conversely, the wet season (May to October) brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, which naturally scavenges pollutants from the atmosphere, leading to improved air quality. However, periods of heavy rainfall can also lead to flooding and the release of pollutants from contaminated sites. Fog, particularly during the cooler months, can also trap pollutants close to the ground. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly in the mornings and evenings when temperature inversions are most likely. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, although vigilance regarding potential flooding is advised. The interplay of these seasonal factors dictates the air quality experience in Atotonilco el Alto, demanding adaptive strategies for public health.