Duartina Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Duartina, a small municipality nestled in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, occupies a unique geographic position within the broader Bauru Plateau. Located at coordinates -22.4144, -49.4039, the city’s terrain is characterized by gently rolling hills and plains, typical of the region’s volcanic origins. The elevation, averaging around 560 meters above sea level, contributes to a moderate climate but also influences air dispersion patterns. Duartina is surrounded by a mosaic of agricultural land, primarily sugarcane and soybean farms, which significantly impacts local air quality through seasonal burning practices and pesticide drift. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp, with the small city center quickly transitioning into expansive agricultural areas. While not directly adjacent to major bodies of water, the city lies within the Tietê River basin, meaning humidity levels can be relatively high. The proximity to larger industrial centers like Bauru (approximately 60km distant) means Duartina can experience transboundary pollution, particularly during periods of stable atmospheric conditions. The prevailing winds, generally from the south-southeast, play a crucial role in transporting pollutants both into and out of the municipality, but can become stagnant during certain times of the year, exacerbating local pollution events. This combination of factors creates a complex air quality profile for Duartina.

Duartina experiences a distinct wet and dry season, rather than traditional four seasons. Air quality in Duartina is most compromised during the dry season (roughly May to September). This period coincides with increased agricultural burning for sugarcane harvesting, releasing substantial particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and other pollutants. Stagnant air masses are also more common during these months, trapping pollutants near the ground. August and September are typically the worst months for air quality, with increased respiratory issues reported locally. The wet season (October to April) generally brings improved air quality due to rainfall washing pollutants from the atmosphere and suppressing dust. However, even during the wet season, localized pollution can occur from vehicle emissions and smaller-scale burning. November and December often experience higher humidity and occasional fog, which can trap pollutants at ground level, though the overall impact is less severe than during the dry season. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during peak pollution periods in the dry season. Monitoring weather patterns and avoiding strenuous exercise on days with visible haze is advisable. The transition months (April/May and September/October) can be unpredictable, requiring increased vigilance.