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São Domingos, Goiás, nestled within the Brazilian Cerrado biome, presents a unique geographic profile influencing its air quality. Located at approximately -13.3983° latitude and -46.3183° longitude, the city sits at an elevation of roughly 370 meters (1214 feet) above sea level, contributing to a generally stable atmospheric layer. The surrounding landscape is dominated by the characteristic Cerrado vegetation – a mosaic of grasslands, woodlands, and savannas – interspersed with patches of gallery forests along seasonal streams. This region is a significant agricultural zone, with soybean, maize, and cattle ranching being primary economic activities. The urban–rural gradient around São Domingos is relatively rapid; the city transitions quickly from built-up areas to extensive agricultural fields and the wild Cerrado. The city’s position within the Goiás state, a key agricultural powerhouse in Brazil, means it’s susceptible to agricultural emissions, particularly during planting and harvesting seasons. While not directly adjacent to major rivers, the presence of smaller seasonal waterways influences local humidity and temperature, impacting atmospheric stability. The Cerrado’s dry season, coupled with the prevalence of agricultural burning (though increasingly regulated), can exacerbate particulate matter concentrations. The relatively flat terrain, typical of the Goiás plateau, can also limit atmospheric dispersion, trapping pollutants within the local area. The absence of significant industrial belts directly within São Domingos mitigates some industrial pollution risks, but regional transport of pollutants from larger urban centers remains a factor.

São Domingos experiences a tropical savanna climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons, profoundly impacting its air quality. The dry season, typically from May to September, is the period of greatest concern. Reduced rainfall leads to lower atmospheric moisture, increasing the propensity for particulate matter to linger. Agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and crop residue disposal, intensifies during this period, releasing significant amounts of smoke and pollutants. Temperature inversions, where cooler air is trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, are more frequent during the dry season, further hindering vertical mixing and concentrating pollutants near ground level. The months of July and August often see the most challenging air quality conditions. Conversely, the wet season (October to April) brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, naturally cleansing the atmosphere and dispersing pollutants. Frequent rainfall events effectively ‘wash out’ particulate matter. Stronger winds associated with convective storms also aid in pollutant dispersion. While the wet season generally offers improved air quality, periods of dense fog, particularly in the transitional months of October and November, can temporarily reduce visibility and trap pollutants close to the ground. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting prolonged outdoor activity, especially on days with visible smoke. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration is also advisable during these periods.