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Muriaé, nestled in the Zona da Mata region of Minas Gerais, Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position within a landscape sculpted by the Rio Muriaé and its tributaries. Located at approximately -21.1308° latitude and -42.3658° longitude, the city sits at an elevation of roughly 650 meters (2,133 feet) above sea level, placing it within a transitional zone between the highlands and the coastal plains. The surrounding terrain is characterized by rolling hills and valleys, typical of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest biome, though significant deforestation for agriculture and cattle ranching has altered the original landscape. Muriaé’s urban fabric reflects this interplay – a compact core gradually expanding outwards, exhibiting a clear urban–rural gradient. The city’s proximity to the Rio Muriaé provides a crucial water source and influences local microclimates, often creating pockets of humidity. While not directly adjacent to major industrial belts, Muriaé serves as a regional hub for agricultural processing, particularly coffee and sugarcane, which contribute to localized air quality concerns. The Zona da Mata is known for its relatively high rainfall, which generally helps to cleanse the atmosphere, but can also exacerbate issues related to biomass burning during agricultural clearing and controlled burns. The Atlantic Forest, though diminished, still provides some natural air filtration, but its effectiveness is reduced by fragmentation and degradation. The city’s location within a basin can also trap pollutants, particularly during periods of low wind speed, impacting air quality within the urban area and surrounding rural communities.

Muriaé’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from April to September, presents the greatest air quality challenges. Reduced rainfall leads to lower atmospheric cleansing, and the prevalence of dry vegetation increases the risk of wildfires and agricultural burning, releasing significant particulate matter and gases into the air. Temperature inversions are more frequent during this period, trapping pollutants near the ground, especially in the mornings. 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 increased rainfall, which naturally washes pollutants from the atmosphere, leading to improved air quality. However, periods of heavy fog, common during the wet season, can temporarily reduce visibility and trap moisture-borne pollutants. Wind patterns are generally variable, but periods of calm air during the dry season exacerbate pollution accumulation. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of visible smoke or haze. Limiting outdoor exertion and avoiding areas with high traffic volume are advisable. During the wet season, while overall air quality is better, individuals with allergies should be mindful of pollen levels and potential mold growth associated with increased humidity. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can further mitigate potential health impacts.