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Zarumilla, nestled in the Tumbes Region of northern Peru, occupies a geographically significant position at the border with Ecuador. Located at approximately -3.5014° latitude and -80.2722° longitude, the city sits within a low-lying coastal plain, averaging around 30 meters (98 feet) above sea level. This proximity to the Pacific Ocean significantly influences local climate and, consequently, air quality. The surrounding landscape is characterized by a blend of dense tropical rainforest and agricultural lands, transitioning into a more arid environment further inland. Zarumilla’s terrain is generally flat, facilitating urban expansion but also limiting natural ventilation. The Amotape River flows nearby, providing a crucial water source but also potentially contributing to humidity and localized fog formation, which can trap pollutants. The region is a vital agricultural zone, with banana plantations and other crops dominating the rural areas surrounding Zarumilla. This agricultural activity, while economically important, can introduce particulate matter and volatile organic compounds into the air. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; Zarumilla itself is a small, developing urban center, with agricultural fields and rainforest quickly enveloping it. There are no major industrial belts immediately adjacent to Zarumilla, but its border location means it is susceptible to transboundary pollution from Ecuador, particularly from industrial or agricultural practices in neighboring areas. The flat topography and coastal location combine to create conditions where pollutants can linger, especially during periods of low wind and temperature inversions.

Zarumilla experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, profoundly impacting its air quality. The wet season, typically spanning November to April, brings consistent rainfall and increased humidity. While the rain itself can help cleanse the atmosphere by washing away particulate matter, the increased humidity often leads to the formation of dense fog, particularly in the mornings. This fog traps pollutants, creating stagnant air conditions and potentially exacerbating respiratory issues. The dry season, from May to October, is characterized by lower rainfall and higher temperatures. During this period, agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and crop residue disposal, becomes more prevalent, significantly increasing particulate matter concentrations. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air sits above cooler air near the ground, are more frequent during the dry season, further hindering vertical mixing and trapping pollutants close to the surface. The prevailing winds, generally easterly, can carry pollutants from agricultural areas and potentially from across the border into Zarumilla. Outdoor activities are generally best enjoyed during the midday hours of the dry season when winds are typically stronger and temperatures are highest, promoting dispersion. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the wet season mornings due to fog and during the dry season due to agricultural burning. Periods of intense rainfall can temporarily improve air quality, but the long-term effects of agricultural practices and potential transboundary pollution remain a concern.