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Naviraí, nestled in the heart of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position within the Cerrado biome, a vast tropical savanna ecoregion. Located at approximately -23.0650° latitude and -54.1908° longitude, the city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Pantanal-Cerrado transition zone. The elevation averages around 270 meters above sea level, contributing to a relatively stable atmospheric layer, though this can also exacerbate pollution events under certain conditions. Surrounding Naviraí is a mosaic of agricultural land, primarily dedicated to soybean and corn cultivation, alongside cattle ranching – a dominant feature of the regional economy. This intensive agricultural activity is a key factor influencing local air quality. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city transitions quickly into expansive agricultural fields and the characteristic Cerrado vegetation of grasslands and scattered trees. While Naviraí lacks immediate proximity to major rivers, it benefits from groundwater resources, influencing local humidity levels. The city’s location within a broader agricultural belt means it’s susceptible to regional pollution transport, particularly from agricultural burning practices common during land clearing and harvest seasons. The prevailing winds, generally from the east, can carry pollutants from neighboring agricultural areas into the city, impacting air quality. The relatively flat topography limits natural dispersion of pollutants, potentially leading to localized concentrations, especially during periods of stagnant air.

Naviraí experiences a tropical savanna climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons, significantly impacting its air quality profile. The dry season, typically from April to September, presents the greatest air quality challenges. Reduced rainfall and lower humidity create conditions conducive to the accumulation of particulate matter, particularly from agricultural burning. This practice, while economically important for land preparation, releases significant quantities of smoke and pollutants into the atmosphere. Temperature inversions are more frequent during the dry season, trapping pollutants near the ground and intensifying their impact. The months of August and September often see the highest concentrations of these pollutants, making them periods to avoid strenuous outdoor activity, especially for children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions. The wet season, from October to March, brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, naturally cleansing the atmosphere and dispersing pollutants. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased levels of mold and pollen, potentially triggering allergic reactions. Wind patterns shift during the wet season, often providing better ventilation and reducing localized pollution. While the wet season generally offers improved air quality, periods of fog can still trap pollutants, creating temporary pockets of poor air quality. During these times, limiting exposure and using air purifiers indoors is advisable. Overall, the cyclical nature of agricultural practices and the climatic conditions dictate a seasonal pattern of air quality fluctuations in Naviraí.