Barra do Corda Air Quality Index (AQI)

Loading live AQI data...

Loading weather snapshot...

Loading historical AQI trends...

Barra do Corda, nestled in the southeastern Maranhão state of Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position within the Cerrado biome. Located at approximately -5.5031° latitude and -45.2369° longitude, the city sits at a modest elevation of around 310 meters (1,017 feet) above sea level, contributing to a relatively mild climate. The surrounding landscape is characterized by the typical undulating terrain of the Cerrado, a vast tropical savanna dotted with gallery forests along ephemeral streams and rivers. This region is a transition zone between the Amazon rainforest to the north and the Caatinga drylands to the south, influencing local vegetation and hydrological patterns. Barra do Corda’s proximity to the Itapecuru River, though not directly on its banks, provides a crucial water source and influences regional humidity. The urban fabric is a developing mix of residential areas, small commercial centers, and limited industrial activity, primarily focused on agricultural processing related to the surrounding rural lands. The dominant land use in the immediate vicinity is cattle ranching and soybean cultivation, creating an urban–rural gradient where agricultural practices can impact air quality. The city’s location within a relatively flat expanse means that air pollutants, particularly those generated by agricultural burning during land clearing or crop residue disposal, can linger and accumulate, especially during periods of low wind. The lack of significant topographic barriers exacerbates this effect, limiting natural dispersion of airborne particles. The regional position, far from major industrial belts, means that long-range transport of pollutants is less of a concern than localized sources.

Barra do Corda experiences a tropical savanna climate, defined by distinct wet and dry seasons rather than the four traditional seasons. The dry season, typically spanning from May to September, presents the most significant air quality challenges. During this period, reduced rainfall and increased temperatures create conditions conducive to the accumulation of particulate matter. Agricultural burning, a common practice for land preparation and pasture management, intensifies, releasing substantial amounts of smoke and ash into the atmosphere. The lack of consistent rainfall to wash away pollutants, coupled with periods of atmospheric stability and potential temperature inversions – where cooler air is trapped beneath warmer air – further traps these emissions near the ground. The months of August and September often see the highest concentrations of particulate matter due to peak burning activity. Conversely, the wet season, from October to April, brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity, which naturally clears the air and reduces pollution levels. Stronger winds associated with the wet season also aid in dispersing pollutants. During the wet season, outdoor activities are generally safer, although occasional periods of fog can temporarily reduce visibility. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure and avoiding areas with visible smoke. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration can also provide some protection. The intensity of agricultural burning is heavily influenced by rainfall patterns; a drier-than-average dry season will likely exacerbate air quality issues.