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Capinzal, nestled in the heart of Santa Catarina state, Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position within the Planalto Serrano, a highland plateau region. Its coordinates, -27.3439, -51.6119, place it approximately 650 meters above sea level, contributing to a generally cooler climate compared to coastal areas of Santa Catarina. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills, fertile agricultural land, and scattered patches of Araucaria forest, a remnant of the Atlantic Forest biome. Capinzal’s location is predominantly rural, serving as a vital agricultural hub for the state, particularly known for its soybean, maize, and wheat production. This agricultural intensity influences the local environment; while not a major industrial center itself, Capinzal is within reach of industrial belts concentrated further west, towards Chapecó. The urban–rural gradient is gradual, with smaller settlements and farms dominating the periphery. The city’s terrain is gently undulating, facilitating drainage but also potentially trapping pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. The absence of major rivers directly adjacent to the city limits its influence on air quality through natural cleansing mechanisms, making local emissions and weather patterns the primary drivers of air quality fluctuations. The prevailing winds, generally from the south-west, carry air masses across the plateau, potentially dispersing pollutants, but also bringing in contaminants from neighboring agricultural areas and distant industrial zones. The relatively isolated location, while offering a degree of protection from coastal pollution, also means the city is reliant on its own mitigation efforts to maintain acceptable air quality.

Capinzal’s subtropical climate dictates a distinct seasonal pattern influencing air quality. The wet season, typically from November to March, brings frequent rainfall, which naturally helps to cleanse the atmosphere, reducing particulate matter and gaseous pollutants. However, increased agricultural activity during this period, including fertilizer application and harvesting, can lead to temporary spikes in ammonia and dust levels. The dry season, from April to October, presents a different set of challenges. Reduced rainfall and higher temperatures often lead to increased evapotranspiration, contributing to ground-level ozone formation, particularly during periods of intense sunshine. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler months (June-August), can trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating air quality issues. The prevailing south-westerly winds, while generally beneficial for dispersion, can become stagnant during these inversions. Agricultural burning, although regulated, can still occur during the dry season to clear fields, releasing significant amounts of smoke and particulate matter. September and October often see the highest concentrations of these pollutants. During the transitional months of April and May, and September and October, air quality is generally moderate, but sensitive individuals should monitor conditions. The cooler, drier months (June-August) require caution, especially for those with respiratory conditions, as inversions can worsen air quality. Outdoor activities are generally best enjoyed during the wetter months, or early mornings when winds are typically stronger and temperatures are lower, minimizing exposure to potential pollutants.