In the line of fire: Analyzing burning impacts on air pollution and air quality in an Amazonian city, Brazil

Brazil is grappling with escalating wildfire incidents, particularly in the ecotone region of Cerrado-Amazon, attributed to climate change and anthropogenic factors. These wildfires significantly impact air quality, posing health and environmental risks to the population. This study aimed to assess the influence of wildfires on air quality in Sinop, a city located in Northern Mato Grosso, Brazil. The primary focus was on understanding the behavior of air pollutants during and after wildfire events. Air quality data were obtained from modeling dataset, while meteorological data from ground-based monitoring, and wildfire data from the National Institute of Spatial Research of Brazil. Statistical analyses were employed to investigate pollutant variations and their relationships with meteorological parameters and wildfire intensity indicators. The study revealed a significant impact of wildfires on pollutant concentrations, with ozone levels rising immediately after fires and remaining elevated for several days. The particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) concentrations increased a few days after fire events. Fire radiative power (FRP) correlated with O3 levels, suggesting it is an intensity indicator. Temperature exhibited a consistent positive correlation with all pollutants, highlighting its role in pollutant dynamics. The findings underscore the multifaceted relationship between wildfires, meteorological conditions, and pollutant concentrations pointing to the importance of holistic air quality management strategies in fire-prone regions. Such studies are crucial for guiding environmental policies, safeguarding public health, and advancing scientific understanding in the face of escalating wildfire challenges.