Mogeiro Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Mogeiro, a municipality nestled in the state of Paraíba, Brazil, occupies a relatively flat portion of the semi-arid Agreste region. Located at approximately -7.2989 latitude and -35.4789 longitude, the city’s geography is characterised by gently undulating terrain transitioning into the broader Paraíba backlands. Its elevation is modest, contributing to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. The urban area of Mogeiro, home to roughly 13,899 inhabitants, is surrounded by caatinga vegetation – a uniquely adapted, drought-resistant biome. This landscape, while ecologically significant, is prone to dust mobilisation during drier periods. The proximity to agricultural zones, particularly those employing small-scale farming practices, introduces potential sources of particulate matter from land preparation and harvesting. While not directly on the coast, Mogeiro is influenced by inland air masses that can carry pollutants from more industrialised areas further east. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with a noticeable shift in land use and population density as one moves away from the central municipality. This concentration of activity within a small area exacerbates localised air quality challenges. The lack of significant topographical features hinders natural ventilation, trapping pollutants during periods of calm weather.

Mogeiro experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning August to December, is characterised by minimal rainfall and increased wind speeds, leading to significant dust resuspension from the surrounding caatinga and agricultural lands. This period sees a peak in particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) concentrations, impacting respiratory health. January to July marks the wet season, bringing relief from dust but also increasing humidity. While rainfall washes away some pollutants, the increased moisture can promote the formation of mould and contribute to indoor air quality issues. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near ground level, worsening conditions. February and March, during the transition from wet to dry, often experience fluctuating conditions. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the peak of the dry season (September-November). Monitoring wind patterns is crucial; strong winds exacerbate dust dispersal. Fog, though infrequent, can also trap pollutants during the cooler months, necessitating caution. Overall, the wet season offers comparatively better air quality, favouring outdoor activities.