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São Gonçalo do Amarante, nestled in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, presents a unique geographic setting influencing its air quality. Located at -5.7928 latitude and -35.3289 longitude, the city sits within the Potiguar Basin, a coastal region characterized by a relatively flat terrain transitioning from sandy beaches and dunes inland to a *cerrado* (savanna) landscape. The city’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 8km, introduces a constant influx of sea breezes, which can both disperse and concentrate pollutants depending on atmospheric conditions. The urban area itself is developing, exhibiting a gradient from denser settlements near the BR-101 highway – a major transportation artery – to more rural areas dedicated to agriculture, primarily sugarcane and fruit cultivation. This agricultural activity contributes to seasonal biomass burning, a significant source of particulate matter. The port complex of Pecém, located nearby, represents a growing industrial zone, potentially impacting air quality through shipping emissions and industrial processes. Elevation is minimal, averaging around 20-50 meters above sea level, limiting natural ventilation and increasing the potential for pollutant accumulation, particularly during temperature inversions. The interplay between coastal breezes, agricultural practices, and industrial development defines the air quality challenges faced by São Gonçalo do Amarante.

São Gonçalo do Amarante experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing air quality. The dry season, typically from August to December, sees significantly reduced rainfall and increased wind speeds, leading to higher concentrations of dust and particulate matter, especially from agricultural activities like sugarcane harvesting and burning. These conditions are exacerbated by the lack of rainfall to wash pollutants from the atmosphere. November and December are often the most challenging months for respiratory health. Conversely, the wet season, spanning January to July, brings relief through frequent rainfall which effectively scrubs the air. However, even during the wet season, localized pollution from the Pecém industrial complex and road traffic can persist. Temperature inversions, common during the calmer nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near the ground, worsening air quality. The consistent sea breezes offer some dispersion, but their effectiveness is limited during inversion events. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly when winds are strong and visibility is reduced. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; winds from agricultural areas during burning season should be avoided.