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Poços de Caldas, nestled in the southern region of Minas Gerais, Brazil, occupies a unique geographic position within the Serra de São José mountains. The city’s elevation, averaging around 688 meters (2,257 feet), significantly influences its climate and, consequently, its air quality. Surrounded by rolling hills and remnants of Atlantic Forest, Poços de Caldas benefits from a relatively rural landscape transitioning into urban areas. This urban-rural gradient is crucial; the surrounding agricultural zones, primarily coffee and fruit cultivation, contribute to seasonal biomass burning, impacting particulate matter levels. The city isn’t directly adjacent to large bodies of water, though numerous springs and streams originate in the surrounding hills, giving it the name ‘Poços’ (wells). While not a major industrial hub, the presence of smaller manufacturing units and the regional road network contribute to localized emissions. The terrain, characterized by valleys and slopes, can trap pollutants during temperature inversions, exacerbating air quality issues. The city’s location within a mountainous region also affects wind patterns, creating localized circulation that can either disperse or concentrate pollutants. Understanding this interplay between topography, land use, and meteorological conditions is vital for assessing and mitigating air pollution in Poços de Caldas.

Poços de Caldas experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing air quality. The dry season, typically from April to September, sees significantly reduced rainfall and increased dust resuspension from agricultural activities and unpaved roads, leading to higher particulate matter concentrations. August and September are often the driest months, posing the greatest risk for those with respiratory sensitivities. Temperature inversions are more frequent during the cooler nights of the dry season, trapping pollutants near ground level. The wet season, from October to March, brings relief through rainfall which effectively washes away pollutants. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of secondary pollutants. November and December, with their higher rainfall, generally offer the best air quality. Biomass burning associated with agricultural practices after the harvest season in October can temporarily elevate particulate matter. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season and monitor local conditions. Fog, common during cooler months, can also exacerbate respiratory issues by trapping pollutants.