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Jilotepec, nestled within the state of Veracruz, Mexico, occupies a geographically significant position at approximately 19.6097° latitude and -96.9511° longitude. The municipality’s terrain is characterized by a rolling landscape, transitioning from the coastal plains of the Gulf of Mexico towards the foothills of the Sierra Madre Oriental mountain range. This elevation gradient, ranging from near sea level to several hundred meters, influences local air circulation patterns. Jilotepec’s proximity to the Gulf, while providing a humid subtropical climate, also exposes it to maritime influences, including occasional salt spray and potential for coastal fog. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural lands – primarily sugarcane and citrus groves – interspersed with smaller settlements and patches of tropical dry forest. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; Jilotepec itself is a small town, and the air quality is largely dictated by agricultural practices and limited local industry. While not directly within a major industrial belt, Veracruz state has significant oil and gas operations further south, and occasional plumes from these facilities can be transported by prevailing winds. The town’s location within a valley can also contribute to localized air stagnation, particularly during periods of calm weather, trapping pollutants released from agricultural burning or vehicle emissions. The soil composition, often clay-rich, can also influence particulate matter suspension during dry periods and agricultural activities. Understanding this interplay of topography, climate, and land use is crucial for assessing and mitigating air quality challenges.

Jilotepec’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by its humid subtropical climate and agricultural practices. The wet season, typically from May to October, brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity, generally leading to improved air quality as precipitation washes away particulate matter and dilutes gaseous pollutants. However, periods of intense rainfall can also mobilize soil erosion, contributing to dust events. The dry season, from November to April, presents a more complex picture. Agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and crop residue disposal, significantly elevates particulate matter concentrations during this period, particularly in November and December. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler months, trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the problem. Fog, often occurring in the mornings during the dry season, further reduces air dispersion. January and February often experience the poorest air quality due to a combination of these factors. Wind patterns are generally easterly, bringing moisture from the Gulf, but can shift during cold fronts, potentially transporting pollutants from other regions. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during periods of agricultural burning and temperature inversions. During the wetter months, while overall air quality is better, vigilance regarding potential mold growth in damp environments is advised. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can be beneficial throughout the year, especially during peak pollution periods.