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Pedregulho, nestled within the state of São Paulo, Brazil, occupies a geographically significant position on the fringes of the larger metropolitan area. Located at approximately -20.2569 latitude and -47.4767 longitude, the city’s terrain is characterized by gently undulating hills, typical of the São Paulo highlands. Its elevation, while not exceptionally high, contributes to localized microclimates and influences air circulation patterns. Pedregulho sits within a transitional zone, exhibiting a gradual urban-rural gradient. To the west, it borders agricultural lands, primarily dedicated to cattle ranching and soybean cultivation, which can contribute to particulate matter through agricultural practices and seasonal burning. To the east, the sprawling urban fabric of São Paulo looms, introducing a complex mix of industrial and vehicular emissions. The city itself is relatively small, with a population of around 16,517, resulting in a less dense urban footprint compared to the core of São Paulo. While not directly adjacent to major rivers or lakes, the region receives rainfall influenced by the broader Atlantic climate system. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of pastureland, scattered forests, and small settlements, creating a buffer zone between the intensive agriculture and the larger urban center. This location, while offering some respite from the intense pollution of São Paulo, still exposes Pedregulho to downwind transport of pollutants and localized agricultural emissions, impacting overall air quality.

Pedregulho’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal rhythm dictated by the interplay of climate and human activity. The wet season, typically spanning from October to March, brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, generally leading to improved air quality as precipitation washes away particulate matter and dilutes gaseous pollutants. However, periods of prolonged fog, common during this season, can trap pollutants near the ground, creating localized episodes of reduced visibility and potentially elevated concentrations of certain pollutants. The dry season, from April to September, presents a more challenging scenario. Lower rainfall and increased sunshine hours contribute to drier conditions, allowing dust and particulate matter to accumulate. Agricultural burning, a common practice in the surrounding rural areas to clear land for planting, significantly exacerbates particulate pollution during this period, particularly in August and September. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air sits above cooler air near the ground, are also more frequent during the dry season, trapping pollutants and preventing their dispersion. This phenomenon is often associated with calmer wind conditions. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution episodes. The transition months of April and October often see fluctuating air quality as the climate shifts, requiring vigilance and awareness of local conditions. Overall, the dry season poses the greatest risk to air quality in Pedregulho, demanding proactive measures to mitigate pollution sources.