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Coxim, nestled in the heart of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, occupies a transitional zone between the Cerrado biome and the Pantanal wetlands. Located at -18.5067 latitude and -54.7600 longitude, the city sits on relatively flat terrain, averaging around 300-350 meters above sea level. This gentle topography doesn’t promote significant natural air dispersion. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, dominated by soybean, corn, and cattle ranching, with increasing areas dedicated to sugarcane cultivation. The Rio Coxim, a tributary of the Paraguay River, flows nearby, influencing local humidity and potentially contributing to localized fog formation. While Coxim isn’t a major industrial hub, the agricultural activities contribute significantly to particulate matter pollution through land preparation, harvesting, and the use of agricultural machinery. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city centre is densely populated, while the periphery quickly transitions into expansive farmland. This proximity to agricultural sources, combined with the flat terrain and occasional temperature inversions, creates conditions conducive to air quality challenges. Dust from unpaved roads and seasonal burning for land clearing further exacerbate the situation. The Pantanal’s influence brings seasonal flooding, impacting transportation and potentially dispersing pollutants differently during wet periods.

Coxim experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically from May to September, sees a significant increase in particulate matter. This is due to increased agricultural activity – land preparation for planting and harvesting – coupled with drier conditions that prevent pollutants from being washed away by rain. Burning for land clearing is also more common during this period, releasing substantial smoke and particulate matter. August and September are often the months with the poorest air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, should limit strenuous outdoor activity during these months. The wet season, from October to April, generally brings improved air quality. Rainfall effectively scrubs the atmosphere, reducing particulate matter concentrations. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of mold and allergens, potentially impacting those with sensitivities. November and December typically offer the clearest air. While the wet season is generally favourable, localized flooding can disrupt transportation and potentially concentrate pollutants in stagnant water. Monitoring wind patterns is crucial, as shifts can bring smoke from distant agricultural fires into the city.