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Curaçá, Bahia, Brazil, occupies a strategically important position within the semi-arid Northeast region, specifically the Chapada Diamantina highlands. Located at approximately -8.9919° latitude and -39.9078° longitude, the city’s geography is dominated by undulating terrain, a characteristic of the broader geological formation. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of caatinga vegetation, a unique biome adapted to drought conditions, interspersed with rocky outcrops and sparse agricultural plots. Curaçá sits at a relatively modest elevation, contributing to a generally stable atmospheric layer, though localized variations in topography can influence wind patterns and pollutant dispersion. The city’s proximity to the São Francisco River, though not directly adjacent, is significant; the river’s influence moderates regional temperatures and can occasionally introduce moisture, impacting atmospheric stability. While Curaçá itself is a relatively small urban center, it lies within a region experiencing increasing agricultural activity, primarily focused on livestock and subsistence farming. This introduces potential sources of particulate matter from agricultural practices and livestock management. The urban–rural gradient around Curaçá is gradual, with small settlements and agricultural areas blending seamlessly into the caatinga landscape. There are no major industrial belts immediately surrounding Curaçá, minimizing direct industrial emissions. However, regional mining activities, though not directly within the city limits, can contribute to dust pollution carried by prevailing winds. The city’s location within a rain shadow area further influences its air quality, limiting precipitation and potentially trapping pollutants.

Curaçá’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from April to September, is characterized by intense solar radiation, high temperatures, and minimal rainfall. This period often sees a build-up of particulate matter, primarily from windblown dust originating from the surrounding caatinga and agricultural lands. The lack of rainfall means there’s no natural cleansing of the atmosphere, and stagnant air conditions can prevail, particularly during periods of high-pressure systems. Conversely, the wet season (October to March) brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, which generally improves air quality by washing away particulate matter and increasing atmospheric moisture, facilitating pollutant removal. However, intense rainfall events can occasionally lead to localized flooding and the release of dust from disturbed soil. The months of July and August are typically the most challenging for air quality due to the prolonged dry conditions and increased wind activity, which stirs up dust. Individuals with respiratory conditions, such as asthma, should exercise caution during these months, limiting outdoor activity during peak daytime hours. The increased humidity during the wet season can exacerbate allergies for some individuals. Elderly populations and young children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of dust and particulate matter, and should be advised to stay indoors when air quality is visibly poor. The interplay of temperature, wind patterns, and rainfall creates a dynamic air quality profile throughout the year, demanding adaptive strategies for public health.