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Salaverry, a coastal city in the La Libertad Region of Peru, occupies a geographically significant position at coordinates -8.2214, -78.9764. With a population of approximately 13,892, it’s a relatively small urban centre heavily defined by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The terrain is largely flat, characteristic of the coastal plains, transitioning to the foothills of the Andes Mountains further inland. This coastal location is crucial to understanding Salaverry’s air quality. The city functions as a major port, handling significant cargo traffic, including minerals and agricultural products. This port activity is a primary source of particulate matter, particularly from dust generated during loading and unloading operations. Surrounding Salaverry are extensive agricultural zones, primarily dedicated to sugarcane and mango cultivation, which contribute to seasonal biomass burning and pesticide drift. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; immediately inland lies agricultural land, quickly giving way to more arid landscapes. Prevailing winds, generally blowing from the southeast, can carry pollutants from inland agricultural practices towards the city, while oceanic breezes offer some, though often insufficient, dilution. The lack of significant topographical features to trap or disperse pollutants exacerbates air quality concerns, making Salaverry vulnerable to localised pollution events.

Salaverry experiences a distinct coastal desert climate, characterized by a pronounced dry season (May to November) and a wetter season (December to April). Air quality generally deteriorates during the dry season. The lack of rainfall means pollutants accumulate, and stronger winds frequently kick up dust from the surrounding arid lands and port operations. November and December often see the highest concentrations of particulate matter. The wetter season brings temporary relief, as rainfall washes away accumulated pollutants, but increased humidity can also contribute to the formation of fog, trapping pollutants near ground level. February and March, while wetter, can experience localised pollution from agricultural burning as farmers prepare fields for new crops. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler months of June-August, exacerbate pollution by preventing vertical mixing of air. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly in November and December. During the wetter months, monitoring for fog-related pollution is advisable. Avoiding peak traffic hours near the port can also reduce exposure to vehicle emissions.