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Mercedes, Corrientes, nestled in the northeast of Argentina, occupies a relatively flat portion of the Paraná River basin. The city’s coordinates (-29.2000, -58.0833) place it within the humid subtropical climate zone, characterized by warm, wet summers and mild winters. The surrounding landscape is predominantly rolling grasslands, transitioning into the Iberá Wetlands to the north – a vast ecological reserve. The terrain is generally low-lying, with an elevation around 80-100 meters above sea level, influencing drainage patterns and potential for localised flooding. The city is situated approximately 60km from the Paraná River, a major waterway that, while providing transport routes, can also contribute to humidity and localised fog formation. Mercedes functions as a regional agricultural hub, processing produce from the surrounding farms, primarily focused on citrus fruits, yerba mate, and livestock. This agricultural activity, alongside smaller-scale industrial processing, represents a key source of potential air pollutants. The urban-rural gradient is fairly sharp, with agricultural land immediately bordering the city limits. This proximity means that wind patterns can directly transport agricultural dust and emissions into the urban area, impacting local air quality. The city’s layout is typical of Argentine provincial capitals, with a grid pattern radiating from a central plaza.

Mercedes experiences distinct seasonal variations in air quality. Spring (September-November) sees a gradual improvement after the cooler, more stable winter months, but agricultural burning begins to increase as farmers prepare fields for planting, leading to spikes in particulate matter. Summer (December-February) brings high humidity and occasional heatwaves, which can exacerbate ozone formation, particularly on calm, sunny days. Rainfall is frequent, offering some natural cleansing, but also contributing to mold spore dispersal. Autumn (March-May) is generally the period of best air quality, with cooler temperatures and reduced agricultural activity. However, the risk of wildfires increases as vegetation dries out. Winter (June-August) often features temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground and leading to higher concentrations of particulate matter from residential heating (wood and gas) and vehicle emissions. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during these inversion periods. Months to avoid for prolonged outdoor exertion are January/February (ozone) and July/August (particulate matter). Fog, common in the cooler months, can also trap pollutants, reducing visibility and worsening respiratory symptoms. Monitoring wind direction is crucial, as winds from agricultural areas often carry higher pollutant loads.