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Ghōriyān, nestled within the Herat Province of Afghanistan, occupies a geographically significant position at approximately 34.34° N, 61.47° E. The city’s terrain is characterized by a gently sloping alluvial plain, a direct consequence of its location near the Hari River, a vital waterway for the region. This plain is part of the broader southwestern Afghanistan landscape, a mix of semi-arid steppe and desert scrubland, gradually transitioning to more rugged mountainous terrain further west towards the Iranian border. Ghōriyān’s elevation, around 550 meters above sea level, contributes to its susceptibility to temperature inversions, a key factor influencing air quality. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive fields of wheat, barley, and fruits – particularly pomegranates and grapes – defining the urban–rural gradient. While Ghōriyān itself is a relatively small urban center, it serves as a regional market town, drawing in agricultural produce from the surrounding areas. There are no major industrial belts immediately adjacent to the city, though smaller-scale agricultural processing facilities and workshops are present. The Hari River, while a source of irrigation and life, can also contribute to localized humidity and fog formation, impacting pollutant dispersion. The prevailing winds generally originate from the west, carrying dust and potential pollutants from the Iranian plateau and the surrounding deserts, a factor that significantly shapes the city’s air quality profile. The relatively flat topography limits natural ventilation, further exacerbating pollution accumulation during periods of low wind speed.

Ghōriyān’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by its arid climate and meteorological patterns. Spring (March-May) often brings a surge in dust and particulate matter as winds pick up, carrying fine particles from the surrounding deserts and agricultural fields. This period is characterized by increased respiratory irritation, particularly for children and the elderly. Summer (June-August) sees a slight improvement due to higher temperatures and increased convective mixing, which helps disperse pollutants, although intense heat can exacerbate ozone formation. However, prolonged periods of intense heat can also lead to stagnant air conditions. Autumn (September-November) is arguably the most challenging period. The combination of cooler temperatures, decreasing sunlight, and frequent temperature inversions traps pollutants close to the ground, leading to periods of poor air quality. Agricultural burning, a common practice for clearing fields, further contributes to particulate pollution during this time. Winter (December-February) is generally the coldest and foggiest season. Dense fog, combined with temperature inversions, severely restricts pollutant dispersion, creating conditions ripe for air quality degradation. Sensitive groups, including individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, young children, and the elderly, should limit outdoor activity during these periods, especially during the autumn and winter months. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration is also crucial. Public health advisories regarding agricultural burning practices are particularly important during the autumn months to mitigate the impact on air quality.