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Sorocaba occupies a strategic position in southeastern Brazil's interior, situated approximately 100 kilometers west of São Paulo city within the state's expansive metropolitan corridor. The city lies at an elevation of around 580 meters above sea level in the Sorocaba River basin, where the gently undulating terrain of the Brazilian Highlands transitions toward the Paraná Plateau. This location places Sorocaba at the heart of São Paulo's industrial belt, with significant manufacturing sectors including automotive, textiles, and machinery that contribute to urban air pollution. The Sorocaba River flows through the city center, providing some natural ventilation but insufficient to fully disperse pollutants given the basin's topography. Surrounding the urban core, the landscape shifts to agricultural zones producing sugarcane, citrus, and grains, creating an urban-rural gradient where occasional agricultural burning can affect air quality during specific seasons. Proximity to the Atlantic Forest remnants to the east offers some natural filtration, but the city's position within Brazil's most industrialized state means it experiences regional pollution transport from the Greater São Paulo metropolitan area, particularly when prevailing easterly winds carry emissions inland. The basin's topography can trap pollutants during temperature inversions, especially in cooler months, while the absence of major mountain barriers allows moderate air circulation that prevents the extreme stagnation seen in deeper valleys.

Sorocaba's air quality follows distinct seasonal patterns shaped by its subtropical climate with dry winters and rainy summers. During autumn (March-May), decreasing rainfall and stable atmospheric conditions often lead to moderate pollution accumulation, particularly from vehicle emissions and industrial activities, making late autumn the beginning of the more challenging period for air quality. Winter (June-August) brings the peak pollution months, as cooler temperatures, frequent temperature inversions, and reduced rainfall trap pollutants near the surface; July and August typically see the highest concentrations of particulate matter, creating hazy conditions that can persist for days. Sensitive groups including children, elderly residents, and those with respiratory conditions should limit prolonged outdoor exposure during winter mornings when inversions are strongest. Spring (September-November) offers gradual improvement as increasing temperatures and occasional rain showers help disperse pollutants, though occasional agricultural burning in surrounding rural areas can cause temporary spikes. Summer (December-February) provides the cleanest air overall, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and stronger convective winds effectively cleansing the atmosphere; this season is ideal for outdoor activities, though high humidity can occasionally combine with pollutants to create muggy conditions. Throughout the year, wind patterns play a crucial role—easterly winds from São Paulo can import pollution, while southerly winds from less industrialized regions bring cleaner air.