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Jaguaribe, Ceará, Brazil, occupies a strategic position within the northeastern Brazilian landscape, deeply influenced by its semi-arid climate and coastal proximity. Located at approximately -5.8908° latitude and -38.6219° longitude, the city sits within the Jaguaribe River basin, a vital water source for the region. The surrounding terrain is characterized by a mosaic of caatinga vegetation, a unique thorny scrubland adapted to drought conditions, interspersed with agricultural lands primarily dedicated to subsistence farming and livestock grazing. The urban fabric of Jaguaribe is relatively compact, reflecting its historical development as a regional trading post and agricultural hub. The city’s elevation is modest, averaging around 150 meters above sea level, which contributes to relatively stable atmospheric conditions, though it can also exacerbate localized pollution events. The urban–rural gradient transitions quickly, with agricultural fields and scattered settlements dominating the immediate periphery. While not directly adjacent to the Atlantic coast, Jaguaribe benefits from prevailing trade winds that can influence air movement and dispersal of pollutants. There are no major industrial belts directly within Jaguaribe itself; however, the broader Ceará state experiences some industrial activity related to port operations and resource extraction further along the coast, which can occasionally contribute to regional air quality fluctuations. The Jaguaribe River's presence moderates temperatures locally and influences humidity, impacting the behaviour of airborne particles.

Jaguaribe’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly impacting air quality dynamics. The dry season, typically spanning from August to May, is characterized by intense solar radiation, high temperatures, and minimal rainfall. This period often sees a build-up of particulate matter, primarily dust originating from the surrounding caatinga and agricultural lands, exacerbated by wind erosion. The lack of rainfall means limited atmospheric cleansing, leading to a gradual accumulation of pollutants. Temperature inversions, though less frequent than in colder climates, can occasionally occur during the dry season, trapping pollutants near the ground, particularly during calmer nights. The wet season, from May to August, brings relief through frequent rainfall, effectively washing away accumulated dust and pollutants, significantly improving air quality. However, heavy rainfall can also temporarily increase humidity and contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone under specific conditions. During the peak of the dry season (September-November), outdoor activities should be carefully planned, especially for children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions. The increased dust levels can trigger asthma and other respiratory ailments. Conversely, the wet season offers a window of improved air quality, making it a more favourable time for outdoor exercise and recreation. The prevailing trade winds generally help to disperse pollutants, but localized events, such as agricultural burning (though regulated, occasional instances occur), can still impact air quality even during the wet season. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation is always recommended.