Capela Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Capela, a municipality nestled within the state of Alagoas in northeastern Brazil, presents a unique geographic context influencing its air quality. Located at approximately -9.4075 latitude and -36.0736 longitude, the city sits relatively close to the Atlantic coastline, roughly 25 kilometers inland. The terrain is characterized by a gently undulating landscape, typical of the coastal plains of Alagoas, transitioning from low-lying areas towards slightly higher ground further inland. This proximity to the ocean introduces a constant influx of humidity and salt spray, impacting local vegetation and potentially contributing to aerosol formation. Capela’s urban character is largely defined by its small size and predominantly rural surroundings. Agriculture, particularly sugarcane and cassava cultivation, dominates the regional economy, and associated agricultural practices – including seasonal burning – are a significant factor. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp, with agricultural lands immediately bordering the city limits. While Capela itself lacks heavy industry, its position within a broader agricultural belt means it’s susceptible to pollutants transported from larger, more industrialized areas further north along the coast. The lack of significant topographical barriers allows for relatively easy dispersion of pollutants, but also means the city is vulnerable to regional air mass movements.

Capela experiences a distinctly tropical climate, characterized by a pronounced wet and dry season rather than traditional four seasons. Air quality in Capela is most compromised during the dry season, typically from September to February. This period sees reduced rainfall, leading to increased dust resuspension from agricultural lands and a concentration of pollutants. The drier air also facilitates the spread of smoke from agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and sugarcane harvesting. Temperature inversions, while not as frequent as in temperate climates, can occur during calm nights, trapping pollutants near the ground. The wet season, from March to August, generally brings improved air quality. Rainfall effectively washes away particulate matter, and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, even during the wet season, localized pollution events can occur due to ongoing agricultural activities. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting strenuous outdoor activity, particularly in agricultural areas. Months of March-May generally offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activities. Fog, common during the transition periods, can exacerbate respiratory issues by trapping pollutants.