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Coremas, nestled in the state of Paraíba, Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position within the Northeast region. Located at -7.0139 latitude and -37.9458 longitude, the city’s terrain is characterized by gently undulating hills and valleys, typical of the Borborema Plateau. Its elevation, averaging around 450 meters above sea level, influences local weather patterns and, consequently, air circulation. Coremas sits within a transitional zone between the Agreste and Sertão ecosystems, meaning the surrounding landscape is a mosaic of semi-arid scrubland, small-scale agriculture (primarily cassava and beans), and scattered patches of caatinga vegetation – a unique, drought-resistant biome. The city’s proximity to the Paraíba River, though not directly adjacent, provides a crucial source of water and influences humidity levels, which can impact pollutant dispersion. While Coremas is a relatively small urban center with a population of approximately 14,683, it serves as a regional hub for agricultural trade, with nearby areas dedicated to livestock farming and fruit cultivation. This agricultural activity, coupled with limited industrial presence (primarily small workshops and processing facilities), contributes to localized air quality concerns. The urban–rural gradient around Coremas is gradual, with agricultural lands quickly transitioning to more natural caatinga landscapes, impacting the overall regional air quality dynamics. The prevailing winds, generally from the northeast, play a key role in transporting pollutants, potentially affecting air quality in neighboring communities.

Coremas, experiencing a tropical climate, exhibits a distinct wet and dry season pattern rather than the four traditional seasons. The dry season, typically spanning from August to November, is characterized by intense solar radiation, high temperatures, and minimal rainfall. This period often sees a stagnation of air quality due to reduced atmospheric mixing and the prevalence of temperature inversions, particularly during the early morning hours. These inversions trap pollutants close to the ground, exacerbating localized emissions from agricultural burning (a common practice for land clearing) and vehicle exhaust. The wet season, from December to July, brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, which generally improves air quality by washing away particulate matter and promoting atmospheric dispersion. However, periods of intense rainfall can also lead to increased mold and fungal spore concentrations, impacting respiratory health. The months of September and October are generally considered the most challenging for air quality due to the combination of dry conditions and agricultural burning. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during these periods, especially during the early morning. During the wet season, while overall air quality improves, those with allergies should be mindful of increased pollen and mold counts. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration is crucial year-round, but particularly important during periods of stagnant air or elevated pollen/mold levels.