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Rio Brilhante, nestled in the southern portion of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, occupies a transitional zone between the Cerrado biome and the Pantanal wetlands. The city’s coordinates (-21.8019, -54.5458) place it within a relatively flat terrain, typical of the Pantanal plain, though with subtle undulations. Elevation averages around 330 meters above sea level. The Rio Brilhante, from which the city derives its name, is a significant waterway influencing local microclimates and potentially contributing to humidity levels that can affect pollutant dispersion. Surrounding the urban core is a landscape dominated by extensive agricultural lands, primarily dedicated to soybean, corn, and sugarcane cultivation, alongside cattle ranching. This agricultural intensity is a key factor influencing air quality. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with the city representing a concentrated point of activity within a vast rural expanse. While not a major industrial hub, agricultural processing facilities and the associated transport networks contribute to localised emissions. The Pantanal’s seasonal flooding patterns can also influence air circulation, creating periods of stagnation. The city’s location, far from major metropolitan areas, means it experiences a different pollution profile than larger Brazilian cities, but is still susceptible to regional agricultural burning impacts.

Rio Brilhante experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing air quality. The dry season, typically from May to September, is characterised by lower humidity and increased susceptibility to agricultural burning. Farmers often utilise fire to clear land for the next planting season, leading to significant spikes in particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and other pollutants. August and September are generally the months with the poorest air quality due to this practice. During this period, sensitive individuals – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity. The wet season, from October to April, brings relief from burning but introduces its own challenges. Increased humidity can trap pollutants near the ground, and stagnant air masses can develop, particularly during calmer periods. While overall pollutant levels are lower, the damp conditions can exacerbate respiratory issues. November and December often see a temporary increase in pollutants due to increased vehicle traffic associated with the harvest season. Fog formation during cooler mornings in the wet season can also concentrate pollutants. Generally, the months of February and March offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activities, with cleaner air and moderate temperatures.