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Axixá, nestled in the southeastern Maranhão state of Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position within the Cerrado biome, a vast tropical savanna ecoregion. Located at approximately -2.8369° latitude and -44.0528° longitude, the city’s terrain is characterized by undulating plains and gently sloping hills, typical of the region. The elevation averages around 300 meters above sea level, influencing local weather patterns and air circulation. Axixá sits within a transitional zone, bordering both the Cerrado and areas exhibiting characteristics of the Amazon rainforest, impacting vegetation and biodiversity. The surrounding landscape is dominated by grasslands, scattered woodlands, and gallery forests along intermittent streams and small rivers. While Axixá itself is a relatively small urban center with a population of roughly 11,790, it’s situated within an agricultural belt, with soybean and maize cultivation being prominent activities. This agricultural activity, alongside cattle ranching, contributes to regional dust and potential emissions. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with the city surrounded by extensive agricultural lands. The lack of major industrial zones within Axixá itself mitigates some pollution sources, however, transportation related emissions from vehicles and agricultural machinery remain a factor. The prevailing winds, generally from the east, can transport pollutants from neighboring regions, and the relatively flat terrain can sometimes lead to stagnant air conditions, particularly during periods of low wind speed, impacting local air quality. The proximity to the Rio Itapecuru, though not directly adjacent, influences humidity levels and can affect the dispersion of pollutants.

Axixá’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from May to September, is characterized by lower rainfall and higher temperatures, often accompanied by periods of intense sunshine. This period frequently sees an increase in particulate matter due to agricultural activities like harvesting and soil preparation, which generate significant dust. The lack of rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, and the drier air can exacerbate respiratory issues. Temperature inversions, where cooler air is trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, are more common during the dry season, hindering vertical mixing and trapping pollutants near the ground. Conversely, the wet season, from October to April, brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity. The increased precipitation naturally washes pollutants from the atmosphere, leading to improved air quality. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to flooding, which can temporarily release pollutants from saturated soils and contribute to localized odor issues. During the wet season, the increased cloud cover reduces solar radiation, which can affect the formation of ozone, a secondary pollutant. The months of July and August, within the dry season, are generally considered periods when outdoor activities should be approached with caution, particularly for children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions. During these months, minimizing strenuous outdoor exertion and wearing appropriate masks can help mitigate potential exposure to elevated particulate levels. The transition periods between wet and dry seasons are often marked by fluctuating air quality, influenced by shifting wind patterns and varying levels of rainfall.