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Bom Jardim, nestled within the sprawling metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, occupies a challenging and geographically complex position. Located at approximately -22.1519° latitude and -42.4189° longitude, the city sits on the fringes of the Serra dos Órgãos mountain range, a significant feature shaping its topography and influencing local climate patterns. The surrounding landscape is a dramatic blend of steep slopes, dense Atlantic Forest remnants, and pockets of agricultural land, transitioning from urban development towards more rural settings. Bom Jardim’s elevation varies considerably, contributing to localized microclimates and impacting air circulation. While not directly bordering the Atlantic Ocean, its proximity (roughly 60km) means it experiences maritime influences, particularly humidity and occasional sea breezes. The city’s location within the greater Rio de Janeiro urban area places it within reach of industrial belts concentrated further west and south, and agricultural zones prevalent in the surrounding countryside. This urban–rural gradient means that agricultural practices and industrial emissions can contribute to air quality challenges. The mountainous terrain often restricts wind flow, leading to stagnant air conditions, particularly during periods of high atmospheric pressure. This topographical constraint, combined with the city’s position within a densely populated region, creates a vulnerability to air pollution originating from both local and regional sources, including vehicle emissions and industrial activity in nearby areas. The Atlantic Forest, though diminished, still plays a role in filtering pollutants, but its capacity is limited by the scale of the urban and industrial pressures.

Bom Jardim’s tropical climate dictates a wet and dry season pattern, significantly influencing its air quality dynamics. The dry season, typically spanning from April to September, often sees a build-up of pollutants due to reduced rainfall and diminished atmospheric cleansing. During these months, lower humidity and increased solar radiation can exacerbate ozone formation, a key component of smog. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, are more frequent during the dry season, further hindering pollutant dispersion and leading to periods of poorer air quality. Conversely, the wet season (October to March) brings increased rainfall, which naturally washes pollutants from the atmosphere, leading to improved air quality. However, heavy rainfall events can also stir up dust and particulate matter, temporarily degrading air quality. Fog, particularly during the cooler months of June and July, can trap pollutants close to the ground, creating localized pockets of poor air quality. The interplay of these meteorological factors means that outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, particularly in the afternoons when rainfall is more likely. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, especially on days with stagnant air or temperature inversions. Monitoring local weather forecasts and air quality reports is crucial for making informed decisions about outdoor exposure. The transition periods between seasons can be particularly variable, with unpredictable shifts in wind patterns and temperature, requiring vigilance regarding air quality conditions.