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Ibititá, nestled in the southern reaches of Bahia, Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position within the Jequitinhonha River basin. Its coordinates, -11.5469, -41.9778, place it within a gently undulating terrain, characterized by rolling hills and valleys typical of the Brazilian Cerrado biome transitioning into Atlantic Forest fringes. The city’s elevation, averaging around 350 meters above sea level, contributes to localized microclimates and influences air circulation patterns. Ibititá is surrounded by a mosaic of landscapes: to the west, expansive agricultural lands dedicated primarily to cocoa and coffee cultivation dominate, while eastward, the terrain rises towards more forested areas, remnants of the Atlantic Forest. The Jequitinhonha River, a vital waterway, flows nearby, moderating local temperatures and providing a source of water for both agriculture and the town itself. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; Ibititá itself is a small, primarily residential town, with agricultural activities defining the immediate surrounding area. While not directly adjacent to major industrial belts, the region experiences transportation-related emissions from trucks servicing the agricultural sector and connecting to larger urban centers like Vitória da Conquista. The prevailing winds, generally from the northeast, carry air masses influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, potentially introducing marine aerosols and impacting local air quality. The Cerrado’s characteristic dry season, coupled with agricultural burning practices in the surrounding areas, can exacerbate particulate matter concentrations, particularly during specific periods of the year. The town’s relatively small size and limited industrial activity generally result in lower overall pollution levels compared to larger Brazilian cities, but localized sources remain a factor.

Ibititá’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season cycle, profoundly influencing its air quality profile. The dry season, typically spanning from April to September, is characterized by reduced rainfall and increased temperatures. This period often witnesses a rise in particulate matter concentrations due to agricultural burning practices employed by local farmers to clear land and prepare fields for planting. The lack of rainfall allows these particles to persist in the atmosphere for longer durations. During this time, temperature inversions, where cooler air is trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, can occur, hindering vertical air mixing and further concentrating pollutants near the ground. The months of August and September are particularly susceptible to elevated particulate levels. Conversely, the wet season (October to March) brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity, effectively cleansing the atmosphere and reducing particulate matter. Stronger winds associated with convective storms also help disperse pollutants. Fog, while infrequent, can occasionally form during cooler nights, trapping moisture and potentially increasing the concentration of gaseous pollutants. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting prolonged outdoor activities, especially on days with visible smoke. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration can also be beneficial. The increased humidity during the wet season generally provides a respite from air quality concerns, although heavy rainfall can occasionally lead to localized flooding and associated issues with mold and dampness, impacting indoor air quality.