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Jardim do Seridó, nestled in the semi-arid heartland of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, presents a unique geographic context influencing its air quality. Located at -6.5839 latitude and -36.7739 longitude, the city sits within the Seridó region, characterized by a rugged, undulating terrain of *caatinga* scrubland. The elevation, though not extreme, contributes to localized atmospheric conditions. Unlike coastal cities, Jardim do Seridó is far removed from direct maritime influences, lacking the moderating effects of sea breezes. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive cattle ranching and increasingly, irrigation-supported fruit cultivation. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, introduces potential sources of particulate matter from land disturbance and fertilizer use. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city itself is compact, with a population of approximately 11,655, surrounded by vast expanses of sparsely populated rural areas. There are no major industrial belts immediately adjacent to Jardim do Seridó, but regional transport routes, carrying agricultural produce and goods, contribute to vehicle emissions. Dust from unpaved roads and seasonal wildfires in the *caatinga* are significant factors impacting local air quality, particularly during the dry season. The city’s position within a rain shadow further exacerbates these conditions.

Jardim do Seridó experiences a pronounced wet-dry seasonal cycle, heavily influencing air quality. The wet season, typically spanning November to March, brings temporary relief from particulate matter as rainfall effectively washes dust and pollutants from the atmosphere. However, increased humidity can also foster mold growth, potentially impacting respiratory health. The dry season, from April to October, is when air quality concerns peak. Prolonged drought conditions lead to increased dust resuspension from agricultural lands and unpaved roads. Wildfires, often ignited by agricultural practices or accidental causes, become more frequent, releasing significant amounts of smoke and particulate matter. August and September are typically the worst months for air quality due to the culmination of these factors. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating their concentration. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during these periods. Conversely, the wetter months offer more favourable conditions for outdoor pursuits, though vigilance regarding mold and humidity-related issues is still advised. Wind patterns, generally easterly, can transport pollutants from distant sources, adding to the complexity of the air quality profile.