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Bebedouro, nestled in the interior of São Paulo state, Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position within the broader Southeast region. Located at approximately -20.9494° latitude and -48.4792° longitude, the city sits at an elevation of roughly 530 meters (1,739 feet) above sea level, contributing to a relatively mild climate. The surrounding landscape is characterized by a transition zone between the Cerrado savanna and the Atlantic Forest biomes, a mix of grasslands, woodlands, and scattered forests. This proximity to both biomes influences local vegetation and, consequently, the potential for biomass burning, particularly during drier periods. Bebedouro’s location is inland, far from the immediate coastal influence, meaning it’s less affected by maritime breezes that could disperse pollutants. The urban fabric of Bebedouro is primarily residential and commercial, with a developing industrial sector focused on food processing and related industries. This sector, while not massive, contributes localized emissions. The city exhibits a clear urban–rural gradient, with agricultural lands – primarily sugarcane and citrus cultivation – dominating the surrounding countryside. These agricultural activities introduce potential sources of air pollution, including pesticide drift and emissions from machinery. The terrain is gently undulating, which can sometimes exacerbate air stagnation, especially when coupled with unfavorable meteorological conditions. The lack of major rivers directly adjacent to the city limits the natural cleansing effect of waterways, further influencing air quality dynamics.

Bebedouro’s tropical savanna climate (Aw) dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly impacting air quality throughout the year. The dry season, typically spanning from April to September, presents the greatest air quality challenges. Reduced rainfall and increased temperatures lead to drier vegetation, creating ideal conditions for wildfires and agricultural burning, a significant source of particulate matter and smoke. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler months (June-August), trap pollutants near the ground, intensifying localized air pollution episodes. The wet season, from October to March, brings increased rainfall, which naturally washes pollutants from the atmosphere and helps to disperse them. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased humidity, potentially exacerbating respiratory issues for sensitive individuals. During the transition months (March/April and September/October), wind patterns are often variable, leading to unpredictable air quality fluctuations. The sugarcane harvest season, which often coincides with the dry season, contributes to increased emissions from machinery and processing plants. Individuals with respiratory conditions, such as asthma, and the elderly should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of agricultural burning or temperature inversions. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, although pollen levels can still be a concern for allergy sufferers. Monitoring local fire alerts and air quality reports is crucial for informed decision-making regarding outdoor exposure.