Quixelô Air Quality Index (AQI)

Loading live AQI data...

Loading weather snapshot...

Loading historical AQI trends...

Quixelô, nestled in the state of Ceará, Brazil, occupies a unique position along the northeastern coastline, approximately 160 kilometers south of Fortaleza. Its coordinates, -6.2539, -39.2019, place it within a predominantly flat, coastal plain characterized by sandy soils and sparse vegetation typical of the Caatinga biome. The city’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean exerts a significant influence on its climate and, consequently, its air quality. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of scrubland, small-scale agriculture (primarily cassava and beans), and extensive stretches of beach. The urban footprint of Quixelô is relatively compact, reflecting its small population of 15910. There's a gradual urban-rural gradient extending outwards, transitioning from the built environment to agricultural fields and then to the more arid Caatinga landscape. While Quixelô isn't situated directly within a major industrial belt, it benefits from its connection to regional transportation networks, facilitating the movement of goods and potentially contributing to localized emissions from vehicles. The elevation is minimal, generally below 30 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate the trapping of pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. The prevailing winds, often originating from the Atlantic, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating airborne particles, and the coastal location means the city is susceptible to salt spray, which can impact respiratory health and contribute to particulate matter in the air. The lack of significant topographical features limits natural air cleansing processes, making the city's air quality highly dependent on local emission sources and regional weather patterns.

Quixelô’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting its air quality profile. The dry season, typically spanning from August to November, is characterized by intense solar radiation, high temperatures, and minimal rainfall. This period often sees a build-up of particulate matter due to reduced precipitation to wash pollutants from the atmosphere and increased dust lifted by strong, dry winds. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, are more frequent during these months, further hindering dispersion. Conversely, the wet season (December to July) brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, naturally cleansing the air and reducing particulate concentrations. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased levels of biological allergens, impacting those with sensitivities. The months of September and October are generally considered the least favorable for outdoor activities due to the combination of high temperatures, low rainfall, and potential for dust storms. During the wet season, particularly in January and February, while overall air quality improves, individuals with respiratory conditions should be mindful of potential pollen spikes. Children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory illnesses are particularly vulnerable during the dry season and should limit prolonged outdoor exposure, especially during midday when temperatures are highest and winds are calm. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration can offer some protection during periods of elevated pollution.