Monção Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Monção, nestled in the state of Maranhão, Brazil, occupies a unique position within the Amazon rainforest’s transition zone to the Cerrado savanna. Located at -3.4919, -45.2508, the city sits on the eastern bank of the Rio Monção, a tributary of the Pindaré River. The terrain is generally flat, typical of the Amazon basin, with a slight undulation as it approaches the interior. Elevation is low, averaging around 20 meters above sea level, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion. Monção’s urban character is defined by a relatively compact core surrounded by agricultural lands, primarily dedicated to subsistence farming and increasingly, large-scale soybean and corn cultivation. This agricultural expansion, while economically important, introduces potential sources of particulate matter from land clearing and pesticide application. The surrounding landscape is dominated by dense tropical rainforest, interspersed with areas of open savanna. The proximity to the Pindaré River influences local humidity and can contribute to fog formation, trapping pollutants. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with a noticeable increase in dust and vehicle emissions closer to the city center. The city’s location, while benefiting from the rainforest’s natural filtration, is increasingly vulnerable to deforestation impacts on regional air quality.

Monção experiences a distinct wet and dry season, rather than traditional four seasons. Air quality in Monção is most compromised during the dry season (roughly June to November). Reduced rainfall leads to increased dust resuspension from agricultural lands and unpaved roads. Biomass burning, often associated with land preparation for the next planting season, becomes prevalent, releasing significant amounts of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and carbon monoxide. Temperature inversions, common during calm, clear nights in the dry season, exacerbate pollution by trapping pollutants near the ground. The wet season (December to May) generally brings improved air quality. Rainfall effectively washes away particulate matter, and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, even during the wet season, localized pollution can occur from vehicle emissions and small-scale burning. October and November are typically the months with the poorest air quality, while February and March offer the most favourable conditions. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly when smoke is visible. Staying indoors with windows closed and using air purifiers can provide relief. Monitoring local fire reports is also advisable.