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Alto Alegre dos Parecis, nestled within the state of Rondônia, Brazil, occupies a unique position in the Amazon rainforest’s transition zone to the Cerrado savanna. Located at approximately -12.1278 latitude and -61.8508 longitude, the city sits at an elevation of roughly 220 meters above sea level. This relatively flat terrain is characteristic of the Parecis Plateau, a region historically dominated by extensive grasslands and scattered forest patches. The city’s air quality is profoundly influenced by its location within this biome. Surrounding Alto Alegre dos Parecis is a landscape increasingly shaped by agricultural expansion, particularly cattle ranching and soybean cultivation, which contribute to particulate matter through land clearing and soil disturbance. While no major industrial belts exist within the immediate vicinity, the growing agricultural sector represents a significant source of potential air pollutants. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with the city centre transitioning quickly to agricultural lands. The lack of substantial water bodies nearby means limited natural air scrubbing capacity. Seasonal burning for land preparation further exacerbates air quality concerns, particularly during the dry season. The prevailing winds, influenced by regional atmospheric circulation patterns, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating these pollutants, impacting the city’s overall air quality.

Alto Alegre dos Parecis experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically from May to September, is characterized by lower humidity and increased susceptibility to wildfires and agricultural burning. This period sees a peak in particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) concentrations as smoke plumes from burning activities accumulate, often exacerbated by stable atmospheric conditions and limited wind dispersal. October and November mark the transition to the wet season, with intermittent rainfall offering some relief, but lingering smoke can still be present. The wet season, spanning December to April, generally brings improved air quality due to rainfall effectively washing away pollutants and suppressing burning. However, increased humidity can also foster mold growth, potentially impacting respiratory health. February and March, the wettest months, are generally the most favourable for outdoor activities. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions – should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor exposure and using appropriate respiratory protection when smoke is visible. Monitoring local fire reports and wind direction is crucial during this period. The transition months require vigilance, as conditions can fluctuate rapidly.