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Matões, a municipality nestled in the interior of Maranhão state, Brazil, occupies a relatively flat terrain within the broader Gurupi-Parnaíba plain. Located at approximately -5.5189 latitude and -43.1989 longitude, the city’s geography is dominated by the Cerrado biome, a tropical savanna ecoregion characterized by open woodlands and grasslands. The surrounding landscape is primarily agricultural, with extensive cattle ranching and increasingly, soybean and corn cultivation. The city itself is bisected by small rivers and streams, tributaries of the Parnaíba River basin, but lacks significant permanent large bodies of water immediately adjacent. Matões doesn’t feature a concentrated industrial belt; however, agricultural activities contribute to particulate matter through land clearing and seasonal burning. The urban-rural gradient is fairly sharp, transitioning quickly from the small city center to expansive agricultural lands. This proximity to agricultural practices, coupled with the flat topography which limits air dispersion, significantly influences local air quality. Dust from unpaved roads and soil erosion further exacerbate particulate matter concentrations. The prevailing winds, influenced by the trade winds and seasonal shifts, play a crucial role in transporting pollutants across the region, potentially impacting Matões from upwind agricultural sources.

Matões experiences a distinct wet and dry season, rather than traditional four seasons. Air quality generally improves during the wet season (roughly November to April) due to rainfall effectively scavenging particulate matter from the atmosphere. However, increased humidity can also foster mold growth, potentially impacting respiratory health. The dry season (May to October) presents the most challenging air quality conditions. This period coincides with increased agricultural burning for land preparation, releasing significant amounts of smoke and particulate matter. The drier air also allows dust from unpaved roads and agricultural fields to remain suspended for longer periods. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near the ground, worsening air quality. August and September are typically the months with the poorest air quality. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during these months. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; pollutants often drift from surrounding agricultural areas. During the wet season, while particulate matter is reduced, vigilance regarding mold and dampness is advised to prevent respiratory issues.