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Rio Paranaíba, nestled in the heart of Minas Gerais, Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position within the broader Cerrado biome and the fringes of the Brazilian Highlands. Located at approximately -19.1939° latitude and -46.2469° longitude, the city’s elevation of around 550 meters above sea level contributes to a generally stable atmospheric layer, which can, at times, exacerbate pollution events. The surrounding landscape is characterized by undulating plains and gently sloping hills typical of the transition zone between the Cerrado and the more humid Atlantic Forest. The Paranaíba River, a vital waterway, flows nearby, influencing local humidity and microclimates. Rio Paranaíba’s proximity to the larger industrial belt of Uberlândia and Uberaba, approximately 100 kilometers to the south, means it is susceptible to downwind transport of pollutants. The region is heavily agricultural, with soybean, maize, and cattle ranching dominating the rural landscape. This agricultural activity contributes to particulate matter pollution, particularly during planting and harvesting seasons, and ammonia emissions from fertilizer use. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with the city acting as a service hub for the surrounding agricultural communities. The terrain, while not dramatically mountainous, creates localized valleys and depressions where air stagnation can occur, especially during periods of calm winds. The Cerrado’s characteristic dry season also influences air quality, as lower humidity can lead to increased dust and wildfire risk, further impacting local air quality.

Rio Paranaíba experiences a tropical savanna climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, typically from April to September, presents the most significant air quality challenges. Reduced rainfall leads to lower atmospheric moisture, creating conditions conducive to dust suspension and increased wildfire frequency, often linked to agricultural land clearing and controlled burns. Calm wind conditions are also more prevalent during this period, leading to stagnant air and the accumulation of pollutants. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air sits above cooler air near the ground, can trap pollutants close to the surface, intensifying their impact. The wet season, from October to March, brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, which naturally helps to cleanse the atmosphere by washing away particulate matter and diluting gaseous pollutants. However, heavy rainfall events can also lead to increased mold spore concentrations, impacting respiratory health. During the transition months (March/April and September/October), fluctuating weather patterns can result in unpredictable air quality. Outdoor activities are generally best enjoyed during the wet season, particularly in the afternoons when rainfall is more likely. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure and avoiding strenuous activity, especially on days with visible haze or smoke. Agricultural activities, particularly burning, pose a heightened risk during the dry season’s transition, requiring vigilance and adherence to local regulations.