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Monsenhor Tabosa, nestled in the heart of Ceará state, Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position within the broader Northeast region. Located at approximately -4.7889° latitude and -40.0628° longitude, the city sits within the Sertão, a semi-arid region characterized by undulating plains and sparse vegetation. The surrounding landscape is dominated by the Caatinga biome, a unique dry tropical forest adapted to prolonged drought conditions, featuring thorny shrubs, cacti, and deciduous trees. Monsenhor Tabosa’s elevation is relatively low, averaging around 400 meters above sea level, contributing to a generally stable atmospheric layer, though susceptible to regional weather patterns. The city’s proximity to the São Francisco River, though not directly adjacent, is crucial; the river’s influence moderates temperatures and provides a vital water source for agriculture, primarily focusing on subsistence farming and livestock rearing. This agricultural activity, while essential for the local economy, can contribute to localized dust and particulate matter, particularly during dry periods. The urban–rural gradient is sharp, with the city acting as a service hub for the surrounding agricultural communities. There are no major industrial belts immediately adjacent to Monsenhor Tabosa; however, regional transport routes pass nearby, potentially introducing pollutants from vehicular traffic. The terrain’s gentle slopes and open nature generally allow for good air circulation, but prolonged periods of drought and still air can exacerbate any existing pollution sources, trapping pollutants close to the ground.

Monsenhor Tabosa experiences a distinctly tropical climate with a pronounced wet and dry season, significantly influencing air quality patterns. The dry season, typically spanning from August to November, is characterized by intense heat, minimal rainfall, and frequent dust storms. These storms, driven by strong winds across the Caatinga landscape, dramatically increase particulate matter concentrations, impacting visibility and respiratory health. Temperature inversions, though less frequent than in cooler climates, can occasionally occur during this period, trapping pollutants near the surface. The wet season, from February to May, brings relief from the dust, as rainfall washes away accumulated pollutants and increased humidity helps to bind particulate matter. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased levels of biological pollutants like mold spores. The transitional months (June-July and December-January) see fluctuating conditions, with occasional dust events interspersed with periods of rainfall. During the hottest months (March-April), stagnant air and high temperatures can exacerbate the effects of any existing pollution. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly on windy days. It’s advisable to monitor local weather reports for dust storm warnings and take precautions such as wearing masks and staying indoors when possible. The period from June to August generally offers the most favourable air quality, with moderate temperatures and occasional rainfall, making it a preferable time for outdoor activities.