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Campinorte, nestled in the state of Goiás, Brazil, occupies a unique position within the Cerrado biome, a vast tropical savanna ecoregion. Located at coordinates -14.3139, -49.1519, the city’s terrain is characterized by gently rolling hills and plateaus, typical of the Brazilian Highlands. The elevation, while not extreme, contributes to localized weather patterns influencing air dispersion. Campinorte’s relatively small population of 12,510 suggests a predominantly rural character, though increasing agricultural activity is shaping the surrounding landscape. The city isn’t directly adjacent to major bodies of water, but lies within the Tocantins River basin, meaning humidity levels can be significant, particularly during the wet season. The regional economy is heavily reliant on agriculture, primarily soybean and corn cultivation, and cattle ranching. This agricultural dominance is a key factor in potential air quality concerns, with seasonal burning for land preparation being a significant source of particulate matter. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; the city centre is compact, quickly transitioning to expansive agricultural lands. This proximity to agricultural zones means that wind patterns can readily transport pollutants from fields into the urban area, impacting local air quality. The lack of substantial industrial belts within Campinorte itself shifts the focus to regional agricultural practices as the primary pollution source.

Campinorte experiences a distinct wet and dry season, rather than traditional four seasons. Air quality in Campinorte is most compromised during the dry season (May to September). This period coincides with increased agricultural burning to clear land for planting, releasing substantial amounts of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and other pollutants. Stable atmospheric conditions and reduced rainfall during these months limit pollutant dispersion, leading to poorer air quality. August and September are typically the months with the highest pollution levels. Conversely, the wet season (October to April) brings relief. Frequent rainfall effectively washes pollutants from the air, and increased humidity promotes settling of particulate matter. November to February generally offer the best air quality, though localized flooding can sometimes create stagnant conditions. Temperature inversions, common during cooler nights in the dry season, can trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating air quality issues. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exertion during the dry season, particularly on days with visible haze. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; winds from agricultural areas indicate potential pollutant influx. Staying indoors with windows closed and using air purifiers can provide additional protection.