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Almirante Tamandaré, nestled in the state of Paraná, Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position within the greater metropolitan region of Curitiba. Located at approximately -25.3250° latitude and -49.3100° longitude, the city’s terrain is characterized by rolling hills and valleys, typical of the Paraná Plateau. This undulating landscape influences local wind patterns and can contribute to the trapping of pollutants in lower-lying areas. The city benefits from proximity to the Ribeira do Iguazu river basin, a vital waterway, but also faces challenges related to agricultural runoff and potential industrial discharge upstream. Surrounding Almirante Tamandaré is a mosaic of agricultural land, primarily dedicated to soybean and corn cultivation, alongside pockets of native Atlantic Forest remnants. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with a noticeable transition from denser residential areas to expansive farmland. This proximity to agricultural activities introduces potential sources of particulate matter from field preparation and harvesting, as well as pesticide drift. The city’s location within a humid subtropical climate zone, coupled with its topography, creates conditions conducive to temperature inversions, particularly during the cooler months, exacerbating air quality concerns. The growing urban sprawl from Curitiba also contributes to increased vehicle emissions impacting the region.

Almirante Tamandaré experiences a distinct seasonal air quality pattern dictated by Paraná’s humid subtropical climate. During the warmer months (December-February), increased rainfall generally leads to improved air quality as precipitation effectively washes away particulate matter. However, higher temperatures can also promote the formation of ground-level ozone, particularly on sunny, stagnant days. March-May sees a transition period, with decreasing rainfall and increasing agricultural activity – planting and initial harvesting – contributing to elevated levels of dust and pollen. The winter months (June-August) are often the most challenging for air quality. Cooler temperatures and frequent temperature inversions trap pollutants near the ground, leading to increased concentrations of particulate matter from residential wood burning and vehicle exhaust. Fog is also common, further reducing visibility and exacerbating respiratory issues. September-November brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and rainfall increases, though agricultural burning for post-harvest cleanup can temporarily worsen conditions. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during winter and periods of agricultural burning. Monitoring wind direction is crucial, as pollutants can be transported from nearby agricultural zones.