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Lanús occupies a strategic position within the Greater Buenos Aires metropolitan area, situated directly south of Argentina's capital city along the western bank of the Riachuelo River. This location places it squarely within the densely urbanized core of the Buenos Aires conurbation, characterized by flat terrain typical of the Pampas region with minimal elevation variation averaging just 10-15 meters above sea level. The city's geography creates a complex air quality environment influenced by its position within the Matanza-Riachuelo basin, where the slow-moving river historically concentrated industrial activity and now contributes to localized pollution through sediment disturbance and atmospheric emissions. Lanús lies within the southern industrial belt of Greater Buenos Aires, surrounded by manufacturing zones, port facilities, and transportation corridors that generate particulate matter and gaseous pollutants. The urban-rural gradient shows complete urbanization with minimal green spaces, creating a heat island effect that traps pollutants. Proximity to the Río de la Plata estuary provides some moderating influence through occasional breezes, but the city's inland position within the metropolitan matrix means it receives transported pollution from Buenos Aires proper while generating its own emissions from vehicular traffic, residential heating, and remaining industrial operations. The flat topography inhibits natural ventilation, allowing pollutants to accumulate during stable atmospheric conditions.

Lanús experiences distinct seasonal air quality patterns shaped by the temperate climate of the Buenos Aires region. During autumn (March-May), decreasing temperatures and increasing atmospheric stability create conditions favorable for pollution accumulation, particularly during calm mornings when temperature inversions trap vehicle emissions near ground level. Winter (June-August) represents the peak pollution season as cold temperatures increase residential heating demands, primarily through natural gas and some wood burning, while frequent thermal inversions prevent vertical dispersion of pollutants. Sensitive groups should limit outdoor activity on still winter mornings when particulate concentrations peak. Spring (September-November) brings improving conditions as rising temperatures reduce heating needs and increasing frontal activity introduces cleansing winds from the pampas, though occasional dust events from agricultural regions to the west can temporarily degrade air quality. Summer (December-February) offers the cleanest air despite higher ozone precursor emissions, as frequent sea breezes from the Río de la Plata provide effective ventilation and convective mixing disperses pollutants vertically. However, heat waves can occasionally lead to elevated ozone levels during afternoon hours. The transitional months of May and September typically show the most variable conditions as weather patterns shift between seasonal regimes. Residents with respiratory conditions should monitor daily forecasts for wind patterns and avoid outdoor exercise during winter stagnation episodes.