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Turvo, Santa Catarina, Brazil, occupies a strategically important position within the western part of the state, nestled within the Paraná River basin. Its coordinates (-28.9258, -49.6789) place it on relatively flat terrain, characteristic of the coastal plain gradually transitioning into the highlands further west. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – primarily soybean and maize cultivation – interspersed with patches of Atlantic Forest remnants, though these are increasingly fragmented. The city’s proximity to the Paraná River, while providing a vital water source and transportation route, also introduces a potential pathway for pollutants transported from upstream industrial areas. Turvo’s urban character is that of a small, developing municipality, largely reliant on agriculture and increasingly, light industrial activities related to processing agricultural products. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city itself is compact, quickly giving way to extensive farmland. Elevation is low, averaging around 250 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate air quality issues as it limits atmospheric dispersion. The region’s climate is subtropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons, influencing local wind patterns and temperature profiles. The presence of nearby industrial zones in larger cities like Mafra and Joinville, though not immediately adjacent, contributes to regional air pollution that can occasionally impact Turvo, particularly during periods of stagnant air. The surrounding topography doesn't offer significant natural barriers to pollutant transport, making the city susceptible to regional air quality events.

Turvo’s air quality experiences a pronounced seasonal cycle dictated by its subtropical climate. The wet season, typically spanning from October to March, brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity, generally leading to improved air quality due to atmospheric cleansing. Rain effectively washes pollutants from the air, and increased cloud cover reduces solar radiation, which can contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone. However, periods of prolonged rainfall can also lead to increased mould and fungal spore concentrations, impacting respiratory health for sensitive individuals. The dry season, from April to September, presents a greater air quality challenge. Lower rainfall and reduced cloud cover result in higher temperatures and increased solar radiation, promoting photochemical smog formation. Stagnant air conditions are more common during this period, particularly in September and October, when high-pressure systems can settle over the region, inhibiting atmospheric mixing and trapping pollutants near the ground. Temperature inversions, where cooler air is trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, are also more frequent, further exacerbating the problem. Agricultural burning, a common practice in the region to clear land for planting, significantly contributes to particulate matter pollution during the dry season, especially in late August and September. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during these periods, particularly during midday when ozone levels are typically highest. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration is also recommended.