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Patrocínio Paulista, nestled in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, occupies a gently undulating terrain within the broader Bauru Plateau. Located at coordinates -20.6394, -47.2817, the city’s elevation is approximately 560 meters above sea level, influencing local meteorological patterns. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, characterized by extensive sugarcane and soybean cultivation, typical of the state’s interior. This agricultural dominance is a key factor in understanding the city’s air quality profile. While not directly adjacent to major bodies of water, the city lies within the Tietê River basin, and drainage patterns contribute to localized humidity. Patrocínio Paulista isn’t situated within a heavily industrialized belt, but regional industrial activity, particularly related to agricultural processing and ethanol production, impacts the wider air shed. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city centre is compact, transitioning quickly to expansive farmland. This proximity to agricultural lands means seasonal burning for land preparation is a significant influence. The prevailing winds, generally from the south-southeast, can transport pollutants from both regional sources and localized agricultural practices directly through the city, affecting air quality concentrations. The city’s relatively small population (14,807) means emissions from traffic are less dominant than in larger urban centres, but still contribute to the overall pollution mix.

Patrocínio Paulista experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, heavily influencing air quality. The dry season, typically from May to September, sees a marked increase in particulate matter due to agricultural burning for sugarcane harvesting and land preparation. Lower humidity and stable atmospheric conditions during these months exacerbate pollution, trapping pollutants near the ground. August and September are often the most challenging months for respiratory health. Conversely, the wet season, from October to April, brings frequent rainfall which effectively washes pollutants from the atmosphere, leading to improved air quality. However, increased humidity can also foster the growth of molds and fungi, potentially triggering allergic reactions. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, further concentrate pollutants. February and March, while still within the wet season, can experience periods of reduced rainfall, leading to localized pollution build-up. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season and monitor local conditions. During the wet season, while air quality is generally better, awareness of mold and fungal growth is advised.