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Jonuta, nestled in the state of Tabasco, Mexico, occupies a low-lying position within the vast Gulf Coastal Plain at coordinates 18.0833° N, 92.1333° W. The city’s elevation is minimal, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. It’s situated near the mouth of the San Pedro and Cárdenas Rivers, a deltaic environment heavily influenced by the Grijalva River system. This proximity to waterways, while vital for transportation and agriculture, also creates conditions conducive to humidity and stagnant air, trapping pollutants. The surrounding landscape is predominantly a tropical rainforest and wetlands, transitioning into agricultural lands focused on oil palm, banana, and cattle ranching. Jonuta itself is a relatively small urban centre, exhibiting a strong urban-rural gradient as it quickly gives way to agricultural and forested areas. The regional economy is heavily reliant on the petroleum industry, with Pemex infrastructure and activity present in the wider Tabasco basin. This industrial presence, alongside agricultural practices involving burning and fertilizer use, significantly impacts local air quality. The flat terrain and frequent rainfall patterns influence pollutant dispersal, but also contribute to localized humidity-driven issues. The city’s location within a tropical climate means consistent warmth and high humidity levels.

Jonuta experiences a pronounced wet and dry season rather than traditional four seasons. Air quality generally deteriorates during the dry season (roughly February to May), as reduced rainfall limits the natural cleansing of the atmosphere. Dust from agricultural activities, particularly from oil palm plantations, becomes more prevalent, and any industrial emissions are less effectively dispersed. Temperature inversions, common during calmer dry season mornings, exacerbate pollution by trapping pollutants near ground level. The wet season (June to November) typically brings improved air quality due to frequent rainfall washing away particulate matter and suppressing dust. However, intense rainfall can also lead to localized flooding and the spread of mold spores, impacting respiratory health. December and January offer a transitional period with generally moderate conditions. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should be particularly cautious during the dry season, limiting strenuous outdoor activity. The months of June through September, while humid, generally present the most favourable conditions for outdoor activity. Monitoring wind patterns is crucial; winds from industrial areas can bring concentrated pollutants. Localized burning for agricultural purposes, common in the transition periods, also contributes to temporary spikes in pollution.