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Santo Tomás, nestled within the Cusco Region of Peru, occupies a geographically significant position in the Peruvian Andes. Located at approximately -14.4510° latitude and -72.0820° longitude, the town sits at a considerable elevation of around 3,700 meters (12,139 feet) above sea level. This high altitude immediately influences air quality, impacting atmospheric pressure and oxygen levels. The surrounding landscape is dominated by the rugged Andean terrain, characterized by steep slopes, valleys, and the presence of the Vilcanota River, a vital water source flowing nearby. Santo Tomás exhibits a distinct urban-rural gradient; while it possesses a defined town center with residential and commercial areas, it quickly transitions into agricultural lands and smaller rural settlements. The primary agricultural activities in the vicinity include potato cultivation and livestock farming, which can contribute to localized air pollution through the release of ammonia and particulate matter. There are no major industrial belts directly adjacent to Santo Tomás, however, Cusco city, a significant industrial and transportation hub, lies approximately 35 kilometers away, and its emissions can occasionally be transported by prevailing winds. The town’s location within a valley can also lead to the trapping of pollutants, particularly during periods of calm weather. The surrounding mountains act as barriers, limiting air circulation and potentially exacerbating air quality issues. The climate, a cool temperate highland climate, further influences atmospheric conditions and pollutant dispersion.

Santo Tomás experiences a pronounced wet and dry season pattern, significantly impacting its air quality throughout the year. The dry season, typically spanning May to October, often sees a relative improvement in air quality due to increased wind speeds and solar radiation, which aids in pollutant dispersion. However, this period can also be marked by increased dust from agricultural activities and unpaved roads, contributing to particulate matter pollution. The wet season, from November to April, brings frequent rainfall and increased humidity. While rain naturally helps to cleanse the atmosphere by removing particulate matter, the increased humidity can trap pollutants closer to the ground, particularly during periods of fog, which are common in the mornings. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air sits above cooler air, are also more frequent during the wet season, preventing vertical mixing and further concentrating pollutants. The months of December and January often experience the poorest air quality due to a combination of increased humidity, fog, and reduced wind speeds. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during these periods, limiting outdoor exertion and avoiding areas with visible smoke. During the dry season, while generally better, those with dust allergies should take precautions. Agricultural burning, though regulated, can still occur, releasing smoke and particulate matter. Overall, understanding the interplay of rainfall, humidity, temperature, and wind patterns is crucial for anticipating and mitigating air quality concerns in Santo Tomás.