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Balneário de Camboriú, nestled along the southern coast of Santa Catarina, Brazil, presents a unique geographic profile significantly influencing its air quality. Situated at approximately -26.99°S, -48.64°W, the city occupies a relatively narrow coastal plain between the Atlantic Ocean and the Serra do Camboriú mountain range. This location creates a funnel effect, potentially trapping pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. The surrounding landscape is a blend of dense Atlantic Forest remnants, transitioning to agricultural lands further inland, and the rugged, forested slopes of the Serra. The city’s elevation varies, rising sharply towards the Serra, with the urban core situated at a low elevation near the coastline. This proximity to the ocean provides a constant source of sea breezes, which can both disperse and, under stagnant conditions, concentrate pollutants. While Balneário de Camboriú isn't directly adjacent to major industrial belts, it’s within a region experiencing increasing urbanization and agricultural intensification, particularly soybean and sugarcane cultivation, which can contribute to regional air pollution through fertilizer use and agricultural burning. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with the city’s dense high-rise development contrasting sharply with the surrounding forested areas. The prevailing winds generally blow parallel to the coastline, but the Serra can disrupt these patterns, creating localized areas of air stagnation, especially during periods of high-pressure systems. The city’s rapid growth and tourism industry also contribute to vehicle emissions and overall air quality challenges.

Balneário de Camboriú’s subtropical climate dictates a distinct seasonal pattern in air quality. The region experiences a wet and dry season rather than four traditional seasons. The wet season, typically from November to March, brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, generally leading to improved air quality due to atmospheric cleansing. Frequent rain showers wash away particulate matter and reduce the concentration of gaseous pollutants. However, intense storms can occasionally stir up dust and debris, temporarily degrading air quality. The dry season, from April to October, presents a greater challenge. Reduced rainfall, coupled with increased sunshine and higher temperatures, can lead to stagnant air conditions, particularly during periods of high-pressure systems. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air sits above cooler air near the ground, are more common during this time, trapping pollutants close to the surface. Agricultural burning, often practiced in the surrounding rural areas to clear land for planting, significantly contributes to particulate matter pollution during the dry season, especially in September and October. Sea breezes, while usually beneficial, can become less effective at dispersing pollutants when atmospheric stability is high. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly on days with visible haze or reduced visibility. Limiting outdoor exertion and avoiding areas with high traffic volume are advisable. During the wet season, while generally cleaner, vigilance is still needed following heavy storms.