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Faxinal dos Guedes, nestled in the western highlands of Santa Catarina, Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position within the Paraná River basin. Located at approximately -26.8528° latitude and -52.2600° longitude, the city’s elevation averages around 850 meters (2,789 feet) above sea level, contributing to a cooler, more temperate climate compared to coastal regions of Santa Catarina. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills, extensive pastures, and agricultural fields, reflecting the region’s strong rural economy. The urban fabric of Faxinal dos Guedes is relatively compact, exhibiting a clear urban–rural gradient as one moves outwards from the central area. While not directly adjacent to major rivers, the city benefits from the broader watershed influence of the Paraná River, impacting local humidity and precipitation patterns. The terrain, predominantly undulating, can influence local wind patterns and the dispersion of pollutants. The region is part of a larger agricultural belt, with significant cultivation of soybeans, corn, and livestock farming dominating the surrounding areas. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to particulate matter emissions, particularly during planting and harvesting seasons. The city’s location, away from major industrial centers, generally shields it from heavy industrial pollution, but agricultural practices and occasional biomass burning for land clearing remain potential sources of localized air quality concerns. The surrounding landscape’s openness allows for relatively good air circulation, though topographic features can sometimes create localized pockets of stagnant air.

Faxinal dos Guedes experiences a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, significantly influencing its air quality profile. The dry season, typically spanning from April to September, often sees a reduction in overall humidity and a greater prevalence of sunshine. However, this period can also be marked by increased biomass burning as farmers prepare fields for planting, leading to elevated levels of particulate matter, particularly in May and June. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, can trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating localized air quality issues. The wet season, from October to March, brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, naturally cleansing the atmosphere and reducing particulate concentrations. However, periods of prolonged fog, especially during the transition months of October and November, can temporarily reduce air dispersion and lead to a build-up of pollutants. Wind patterns are generally moderate, but periods of calm air, particularly during the dry season, can hinder pollutant dispersal. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should be mindful of potential particulate matter spikes during the dry season, especially on days with visible smoke. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, although fog can reduce visibility. While large-scale industrial pollution is minimal, awareness of agricultural practices and their potential impact on air quality remains crucial for public health.