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Domingos Martins, nestled in the Serra Capixaba region of Espírito Santo, Brazil, occupies a unique and challenging geographic position. Located at approximately -20.3628° latitude and -40.6589° longitude, the city sits at a significant elevation, averaging around 800 meters (2625 feet) above sea level. This high altitude, combined with its location within the mountainous terrain, profoundly influences local air quality. The surrounding landscape is dominated by lush Atlantic Forest, a biodiversity hotspot, but also includes areas of pastureland and small-scale agriculture, primarily coffee and sugarcane cultivation. The urban fabric of Domingos Martins is characterized by a relatively low-density layout, reflecting its historical development as a rural settlement. While it has experienced some growth, it retains a distinct rural character, with a gradual urban–rural gradient extending outwards. The city’s proximity to the Doce River, though not directly adjacent, influences regional weather patterns and can impact the dispersion of pollutants. There are no major industrial belts immediately surrounding Domingos Martins; however, the broader Espírito Santo state is known for its iron ore mining and steel production, and occasional transport of these materials through the region can contribute to particulate matter. The topography creates localized valleys and slopes, which can trap pollutants under certain meteorological conditions, exacerbating air quality issues. The Atlantic Forest, while generally beneficial for air purification, can also contribute to fog formation, which can further impede pollutant dispersal.

Domingos Martins experiences a tropical highland climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons rather than the four traditional seasons. The dry season, typically from April to September, often sees a noticeable increase in particulate matter concentrations. This is largely due to reduced rainfall, which limits the natural cleansing effect of precipitation, and increased agricultural burning practices used for land clearing and crop residue management. The drier air also promotes the formation of temperature inversions, particularly during the cooler months of June and July. These inversions trap pollutants near the ground, leading to stagnant air and elevated levels of fine particles. Conversely, the wet season (October to March) brings frequent rainfall, which effectively washes pollutants from the atmosphere, resulting in improved air quality. However, periods of intense rainfall can also lead to soil erosion and the suspension of dust particles, temporarily degrading air quality. Fog, common during the cooler, drier months, further restricts pollutant dispersion. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of agricultural burning. Limiting outdoor exertion and avoiding areas with visible smoke are advisable. During the wet season, while generally cleaner, vigilance regarding potential dust events following heavy rainfall is still recommended. The interplay of these meteorological factors dictates the air quality narrative throughout the year in Domingos Martins.