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Ibirité, nestled in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, occupies a strategically important position within the Belo Horizonte metropolitan region. Located at approximately -20.0219° latitude and -44.0589° longitude, the city sits at an elevation of around 820 meters (2,690 feet) above sea level, contributing to a generally cooler climate compared to lower-lying areas. The surrounding landscape is characterized by the undulating hills and valleys typical of the Serra do Curral mountain range, a significant geological feature shaping the region's topography. This terrain influences local wind patterns and can exacerbate air pollution events by trapping pollutants. Ibirité’s urban fabric blends residential areas with industrial zones, reflecting its role as a satellite city to Belo Horizonte, drawing commuters and supporting local manufacturing. The city exhibits a clear urban-rural gradient, with more densely populated areas closer to the main transport corridors gradually transitioning to agricultural land and smaller settlements further out. While not directly adjacent to major rivers, Ibirité benefits from proximity to smaller streams and reservoirs, which can influence local humidity and temperature. The presence of mining activities and agricultural practices in the broader region, particularly sugarcane cultivation and cattle ranching, contributes to potential sources of air pollutants, including particulate matter and volatile organic compounds. The city’s location within a bowl-shaped valley can also lead to stagnant air conditions, especially during periods of low wind speed, hindering pollutant dispersion.

Ibirité experiences a tropical savanna climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons rather than the four traditional seasons. The dry season, typically spanning from April to September, often sees a noticeable increase in air quality concerns. Reduced rainfall during this period means less natural cleansing of the atmosphere through precipitation, allowing pollutants to accumulate. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler, drier months, trap pollutants near the ground, particularly in the mornings and evenings. These inversions occur when a layer of warm air sits above a layer of cooler air, preventing vertical mixing. The dry season also coincides with increased agricultural burning in surrounding areas, releasing significant amounts of smoke and particulate matter. Conversely, the wet season (October to March) brings frequent rainfall, which effectively washes pollutants from the air, leading to improved air quality. However, heavy rainfall can also mobilize dust and soil particles, temporarily degrading air quality. Fog, particularly during the transition periods between seasons, can also trap pollutants, creating localized air quality issues. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution times. Increased humidity during the wet season can exacerbate respiratory issues for some, so maintaining indoor air quality is also important. The agricultural cycle, with planting and harvesting activities, significantly impacts air quality throughout the year, requiring vigilance and awareness of potential pollution sources.