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El Viejo, nestled in the Chinandega department of Nicaragua, occupies a geographically significant position within the country’s Pacific coastal plain. Located at approximately 12.67° N, 87.17° W, and an elevation of roughly 280 meters (919 feet) above sea level, the city benefits from a relatively mild climate influenced by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The surrounding landscape is characterized by a mix of fertile agricultural lands, primarily dedicated to sugarcane and coffee cultivation, and gently rolling hills. To the west lies the Pacific Ocean, providing a moderating influence on temperatures, though also introducing potential sources of marine-borne pollutants. The urban fabric of El Viejo is a blend of traditional colonial architecture and more modern development, reflecting its historical importance as a regional hub. The city’s location within a broader agricultural belt means that agricultural practices, including the burning of crop residues, can contribute to localized air pollution episodes. The urban–rural gradient transitions relatively smoothly, with smaller agricultural communities and rural settlements extending outwards from the city limits. The terrain, while generally flat, experiences occasional breezes that can disperse pollutants, but also, under certain meteorological conditions, trap them, particularly during periods of temperature inversion. The presence of nearby industrial activity, though not extensive, further influences the regional air quality profile, with potential emissions from processing plants and related infrastructure. The city’s position within a relatively densely populated region of Nicaragua means that regional transport patterns also impact local air quality.

El Viejo’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, significantly influencing its air quality dynamics. The dry season, typically spanning November through April, often sees a reduction in overall air pollution due to decreased rainfall and reduced humidity. However, this period can also experience periods of stagnant air, particularly during temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, preventing the dispersion of pollutants. Agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and sugarcane preparation, tends to peak during the transition into the dry season and early months, contributing to elevated particulate matter. The wet season, from May to October, brings frequent rainfall, which naturally helps to cleanse the atmosphere by removing particulate matter and gaseous pollutants. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased humidity, which can exacerbate respiratory issues for sensitive individuals. Fog, a relatively common occurrence during the wet season, can trap pollutants near the ground, creating localized pockets of poor air quality. The intensity of the monsoon-like rains can also lead to flooding, which can release pollutants from contaminated soils and water sources. For sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, the transition periods between seasons, particularly the shift from dry to wet, require heightened vigilance. During the dry season, limiting outdoor exertion during midday and avoiding areas with visible smoke is advisable. The wet season necessitates awareness of potential flooding and associated waterborne contaminants.