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Aquidabã, a municipality nestled in the state of Sergipe, Brazil, presents a unique geographic context influencing its air quality. Located at approximately -10.2833° latitude and -37.0333° longitude, the city sits within the semi-arid Agreste region of northeastern Brazil. The terrain is characterised by rolling hills and plateaus, a transitional zone between the coastal plains and the more rugged interior. Aquidabã’s elevation, though modest, contributes to localised atmospheric conditions. The Vaza-Barris River, a significant waterway in Sergipe, flows nearby, influencing humidity and potentially trapping pollutants during temperature inversions. The surrounding landscape is dominated by Caatinga vegetation, a thorny scrub forest adapted to drought conditions. Agriculture, primarily subsistence farming and livestock raising, is prevalent in the region, with potential for seasonal burning contributing to particulate matter. While Aquidabã isn’t a major industrial hub, regional economic activity, including processing of agricultural products, can generate localised emissions. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with the city centre representing a concentrated source of vehicular and domestic emissions, while surrounding areas experience emissions from agricultural practices. This interplay of factors creates a complex air quality profile, sensitive to both local activities and regional climate patterns.

Aquidabã experiences a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, typically from August to December, is characterised by low rainfall, high temperatures, and increased dust and particulate matter in the air. Agricultural burning, often used for land clearing, peaks during this period, exacerbating pollution levels. Strong winds can transport these pollutants across the region, affecting respiratory health. January to April marks the wet season, bringing relief from dust and a temporary improvement in air quality as rainfall washes away pollutants. However, increased humidity can also foster mould growth, impacting indoor air quality. May to July represents a transitional period with moderate rainfall and temperatures. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near the ground, leading to localised air quality deterioration. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the peak of the dry season (September-November). Fog, occasionally occurring during the transition periods, can also trap pollutants. Monitoring wind patterns is crucial, as winds from agricultural areas can bring smoke and dust into the city.