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Perdizes, nestled within the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position within the southeastern region. Located at approximately -19.3528° latitude and -47.2928° longitude, the city’s terrain is characterized by undulating hills and valleys, typical of the Brazilian Highlands. Its elevation, around 850 meters (2,789 feet) above sea level, contributes to a cooler climate compared to coastal Brazilian cities, but also influences atmospheric stability and potential for temperature inversions. Perdizes sits within a transitional zone, bordering both agricultural lands and the broader urban sprawl of Minas Gerais. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of pastureland, small-scale farming operations (often focused on coffee and dairy), and patches of remnant Cerrado savanna vegetation. This proximity to agricultural activity introduces potential sources of particulate matter, particularly during harvesting and burning seasons. While not directly adjacent to a major river, Perdizes benefits from groundwater resources and occasional rainfall runoff, influencing local humidity levels. The urban–rural gradient is relatively gradual, with smaller settlements and agricultural areas blending into the city’s periphery. The lack of significant industrial belts directly within Perdizes itself mitigates some pollution risks, however, regional industrial activity in larger cities like Belo Horizonte, approximately 100km away, can contribute to transboundary air pollution events. The city’s compact urban form, with a mix of residential and commercial areas, means that local emissions from vehicles and smaller businesses are concentrated within a relatively small area.

Perdizes experiences a tropical savanna climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons, significantly impacting air quality patterns. The dry season, typically spanning from April to September, is often associated with heightened particulate matter concentrations. Reduced rainfall and lower humidity create conditions conducive to dust accumulation and the persistence of smoke from agricultural burning practices in surrounding rural areas. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, are more frequent during this period, further exacerbating the concentration of pollutants. The months of July and August often see the most challenging air quality conditions. Conversely, the wet season (October to March) brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, naturally cleansing the atmosphere and dispersing pollutants. Frequent rainfall events effectively ‘wash’ particulate matter from the air, leading to improved air quality. However, periods of prolonged fog, particularly during the transition months of October and November, can temporarily trap pollutants near the ground, creating localized air quality concerns. During the wet season, outdoor activities are generally more favorable, especially for sensitive groups like children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions. The increased humidity can also exacerbate allergies for some. It’s advisable to monitor local conditions and avoid prolonged outdoor exposure during periods of fog or when smoke from distant agricultural fires is detected. While the wet season generally offers respite, the intensity of rainfall and occasional thunderstorms can still impact air quality temporarily.