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Itanhomi, nestled within the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position within the southeastern region. Located at approximately -19.1719 latitude and -41.8650 longitude, the city’s terrain is characterized by undulating hills and valleys typical of the Brazilian Highlands. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of cerrado savanna and remnants of Atlantic Forest, a biome increasingly fragmented by agricultural expansion. Itanhomi sits at an elevation of roughly 750 meters (2,460 feet) above sea level, influencing local climate patterns and potentially affecting air quality through temperature inversions, particularly during cooler months. The city’s proximity to the Rio Doce watershed, though not directly adjacent to a major river within the city limits, means that regional water bodies can influence humidity and precipitation patterns, impacting pollutant dispersion. The urban fabric of Itanhomi is relatively small, reflecting its population of just over 11,000. The urban–rural gradient is gradual, with agricultural activities, primarily coffee and livestock farming, dominating the immediate periphery. Further afield, Minas Gerais is a major mining state, and while Itanhomi itself isn't a major mining hub, the broader regional industrial belt, centered around larger cities like Belo Horizonte, can contribute to transboundary air pollution events. The cerrado vegetation, while providing some natural air filtration, also releases biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) which can react with pollutants under certain conditions, impacting ozone formation. The topography creates localized valleys where pollutants can accumulate, especially when wind speeds are low.

Itanhomi 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 brings a noticeable increase in air quality concerns. Reduced rainfall leads to lower atmospheric moisture, which inhibits the natural cleansing effect of precipitation. Furthermore, the drier air can exacerbate the impact of temperature inversions, a common occurrence during the cooler months (June-August). These inversions trap pollutants near the ground, leading to stagnant air and potential accumulation of particulate matter and other emissions. Agricultural burning, a practice sometimes employed to clear land for planting, is more prevalent during the dry season, contributing significantly to particulate pollution. The wet season, from October to March, generally sees improved air quality due to frequent rainfall, which washes pollutants from the atmosphere. However, periods of intense rainfall can also lead to increased soil erosion and dust events, temporarily degrading air quality. Fog, while infrequent, can occur during the cooler, drier months, further hindering pollutant dispersion. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of temperature inversion or agricultural burning. Limiting outdoor exertion and monitoring local air quality reports are advisable. During the wet season, while generally cleaner, be mindful of potential dust events following heavy rainfall.