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Igreja Nova, nestled in the state of Alagoas, Brazil, occupies a geographically complex position within the semi-arid Sertão region. Located at approximately -10.1253 latitude and -36.6619 longitude, the city sits inland, roughly 60km from the Atlantic coastline. The terrain is characterised by rolling hills and plateaus, typical of the Brazilian Northeast, with elevations ranging between 200-400 meters. This inland location, coupled with the region’s geology, contributes to a lower dispersion of pollutants. Igreja Nova’s urban character is that of a developing interior city, with a population of around 21,372. Surrounding the city are extensive areas of *caatinga* scrubland, a unique biome adapted to drought conditions. Agriculture, primarily subsistence farming and some small-scale sugarcane cultivation, dominates the rural landscape. While Igreja Nova itself doesn’t possess heavy industry, its proximity to larger agricultural processing centres and transport routes introduces potential sources of particulate matter. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with a noticeable increase in dust and biomass burning smoke closer to agricultural areas. The lack of significant natural windbreaks and the relatively flat topography can exacerbate localised pollution events, particularly during the dry season. The city’s position within a river basin also influences humidity and potential for temperature inversions.

Igreja Nova experiences a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, typically from September to February, is characterised by low rainfall, high temperatures, and increased dust resuspension from agricultural lands and unpaved roads. This period sees a peak in particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) concentrations, exacerbated by common agricultural burning practices to clear land for planting. February and March often bring a transition period with increased wind activity, temporarily dispersing pollutants, but also carrying dust from further afield. The wet season, spanning from March to August, offers a reprieve. Rainfall effectively washes away particulate matter, and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, even during the wet season, localised pollution can occur due to vehicle emissions and biomass burning for domestic purposes. November and December, marking the beginning of the dry season, are often the most favourable months for outdoor activity. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the peak of the dry season (October-January) and be mindful of smoke from burning. Monitoring wind direction is crucial, as pollutants can accumulate quickly in stagnant air.