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Curuzú Cuatiá, nestled in the province of Corrientes, Argentina, occupies a geographically significant position within the Iberá Wetlands, one of the largest freshwater ecosystems in the world. Located at approximately -29.78° latitude and -58.08° longitude, the city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Parana River basin. The surrounding landscape is dominated by expansive grasslands, seasonally flooded forests (selvas), and numerous lagoons and waterways, defining a strong urban–rural gradient. The city itself is relatively low-lying, with an average elevation of just 85 meters above sea level, contributing to potential stagnation of air masses, particularly during periods of stable weather. Curuzú Cuatiá’s proximity to the Paraná River influences local humidity and temperature patterns, creating a subtropical climate. While not directly adjacent to major industrial belts, the region is a significant agricultural zone, with extensive cattle ranching and soybean cultivation. Agricultural practices, including the use of fertilizers and pesticides, and the burning of agricultural waste, can contribute to localized air pollution episodes. The city’s urban character is that of a regional hub, serving as a commercial and administrative center for the surrounding agricultural communities. The Iberá Wetlands’ vastness moderates regional temperatures, but also presents challenges related to seasonal flooding, which can impact infrastructure and potentially influence air quality through the release of organic compounds from inundated vegetation. The flat topography and prevailing wind patterns, often influenced by the seasonal shifts in the Intertropical Convergence Zone, play a crucial role in the dispersion – or lack thereof – of pollutants.

Curuzú Cuatiá experiences a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly impacting its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from April to October, is characterized by lower humidity and increased temperatures. While winds are generally moderate, periods of atmospheric stability can lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. Agricultural burning, a common practice to clear land for planting or harvesting, intensifies during this period, releasing particulate matter and volatile organic compounds. The months of August and September often see the highest concentrations of these pollutants, making outdoor activities potentially problematic for sensitive individuals. Conversely, the wet season, from November to March, brings frequent rainfall and high humidity. The increased precipitation naturally helps to cleanse the air, washing away particulate matter and reducing pollutant concentrations. However, the high humidity can exacerbate respiratory issues for those with pre-existing conditions. Fog, common during the cooler months, can also trap pollutants, creating localized air quality concerns. The prevailing winds, influenced by the seasonal shifts in the Intertropical Convergence Zone, generally blow from the northeast during the wet season, dispersing pollutants. During the transition months (March/April and September/October), air quality can be variable, influenced by the interplay of changing wind patterns and temperature fluctuations. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory illnesses, should monitor local conditions and limit outdoor exposure during periods of agricultural burning or fog.