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Rosário Oeste, nestled in the heart of Mato Grosso, Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position within the Cerrado biome, a vast tropical savanna ecoregion. Located at approximately -14.8358° latitude and -56.4278° longitude, the city sits at an elevation of around 450 meters (1,476 feet) above sea level, contributing to a relatively mild climate. The surrounding landscape is characterized by undulating plains punctuated by *cerrado* vegetation – a mosaic of grasslands, shrubs, and scattered trees adapted to seasonal drought and fire. While not directly adjacent to major rivers, Rosário Oeste benefits from proximity to smaller tributaries and seasonal streams that feed into the Paraguay River basin, influencing local humidity and microclimates. The city’s urban footprint is relatively small, reflecting its population of 15,453, and exhibits a clear urban–rural gradient. Agriculture dominates the surrounding region, with extensive soybean, maize, and cattle farming operations prevalent. This agricultural activity, coupled with the increasing presence of mechanized farming techniques, introduces potential sources of particulate matter and ammonia into the atmosphere. Furthermore, Rosário Oeste’s location within a broader agricultural belt means it can be affected by regional dust storms, particularly during drier periods. The terrain, while generally flat, can create localized areas of stagnant air, especially during temperature inversions, potentially trapping pollutants. The city’s position within the Cerrado also means it experiences a distinct dry season, which can exacerbate air quality issues due to increased dust and biomass burning.

Rosário Oeste’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s tropical climate, characterized by a pronounced wet and dry season. The dry season, typically spanning from April to September, presents the greatest air quality challenges. Reduced rainfall leads to drier vegetation and soil, increasing the risk of wildfires and agricultural burning – a common practice for land clearing and crop residue management. These fires release significant quantities of particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and other harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. Temperature inversions are also more frequent during this period, trapping pollutants near the ground and intensifying their impact. The months of August and September often experience the poorest air quality due to peak burning activity. Conversely, the wet season (October to March) brings relief, with frequent rainfall washing away particulate matter and diluting pollutant concentrations. Higher humidity also reduces dust generation. However, periods of intense rainfall can lead to flooding, which can temporarily release pollutants from soil and water sources. Fog, particularly during the transition months (March/April and September/October), can also trap pollutants, creating localized air quality concerns. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activities on days with visible smoke or haze. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration is also recommended during these periods. The prevalence of agricultural activities necessitates careful monitoring and regulation of burning practices to minimize their impact on public health.