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Correntes, nestled in the Zona da Mata region of Pernambuco, Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position within a landscape characterized by rolling hills and a transition zone between the Atlantic Forest biome and the arid Northeast. Located at approximately -9.1289° latitude and -36.3300° longitude, the city’s elevation, though modest, contributes to localized microclimates. The surrounding terrain is a mosaic of small farms, sugar cane plantations, and remnants of the Atlantic Forest, creating a distinct urban–rural gradient. The proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, roughly 50 kilometers to the east, influences humidity levels and prevailing wind patterns, which can both disperse and concentrate pollutants. Correntes sits within a historically important agricultural belt, with sugar cane cultivation being a dominant land use. This agricultural activity, alongside potential small-scale processing facilities within or near the city, introduces sources of particulate matter and volatile organic compounds. The Zona da Mata’s climate is typically hot and humid, with a pronounced wet season. This high humidity can trap pollutants closer to the ground, particularly during periods of reduced wind. The city’s relatively small population (17,131) suggests a compact urban footprint, potentially leading to higher concentrations of localized pollution sources. The surrounding landscape, while offering some natural air purification through vegetation, also presents challenges due to agricultural practices and the potential for biomass burning during land clearing or agricultural waste management. The interplay of these factors shapes Correntes’ air quality profile.

Correntes experiences a tropical climate with a distinct wet and dry season, significantly impacting its air quality. The wet season, typically spanning from March to August, brings frequent rainfall and high humidity. While the rain itself can help cleanse the atmosphere by removing particulate matter, the increased humidity often leads to stagnant air conditions, particularly during periods of low wind. This stagnation can trap pollutants released from agricultural activities, such as sugar cane burning, and from any localized industrial or vehicular sources. The dry season, from September to February, is characterized by lower rainfall and generally higher temperatures. During this period, the lack of rainfall means pollutants aren't washed away as effectively, and the warmer temperatures can exacerbate ozone formation, a secondary pollutant. Fog, though infrequent, can occur during the cooler months (June-August), further trapping pollutants near the ground. Wind patterns, predominantly easterly from the Atlantic, play a crucial role; strong winds can disperse pollutants, while calm conditions allow them to accumulate. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season and periods of stagnant air, particularly in the mornings when pollutants tend to concentrate. Agricultural burning, a common practice in the region, poses a significant risk during the dry season, and residents should monitor local conditions and limit outdoor exertion when smoke is present. The transition months (February/March and August/September) often present unpredictable air quality due to shifting weather patterns.