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Hacı Zeynalabdin, a city within the Sumqayıt region of Azerbaijan, occupies a geographically significant position on the western shore of the Caspian Sea. Situated at coordinates 40.6242° N, 49.5575° E, the city’s terrain is relatively flat, characteristic of the Kura-Araz Lowland. This lowland environment, coupled with its proximity to the sea, influences local climate patterns and, crucially, air quality. The surrounding landscape is a mix of semi-desert and agricultural land, with the city itself being part of a larger industrial belt extending along the Absheron Peninsula. Sumqayıt, the larger regional hub, is a major industrial centre, and Hacı Zeynalabdin’s air quality is inevitably impacted by emissions from these sources. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; moving inland from the coastal strip quickly transitions into agricultural fields. The Caspian Sea exerts a moderating influence on temperatures, but also contributes to humidity and potential for fog formation, which can trap pollutants. The prevailing winds, often from the north and northwest, can transport pollutants from industrial areas towards the city, while southerly winds may bring cleaner air from the south. The city’s elevation is low, further reducing atmospheric dispersion of pollutants.

Air quality in Hacı Zeynalabdin exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern. Spring (March-May) often sees a rise in particulate matter due to agricultural activities – ploughing and sowing release dust into the air. Winds can be erratic during this period, sometimes dispersing pollutants, other times concentrating them. Summer (June-August) generally offers improved air quality, benefiting from higher temperatures and stronger winds that promote dispersion, though ozone formation can be a concern on hot, sunny days. However, increased recreational activity near the Caspian Sea can contribute to localised emissions. Autumn (September-November) is often the most challenging period. Temperature inversions become more frequent, trapping pollutants close to the ground, and the onset of heating systems in nearby Sumqayıt adds to emissions. November is typically a month to avoid strenuous outdoor activity. Winter (December-February) sees reduced sunlight and continued heating demands, leading to persistent pollution. Fog, common along the Caspian coast, exacerbates the problem by limiting dispersion. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exposure during autumn and winter months, and consider using air purifiers indoors. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; winds from the industrial zones of Sumqayıt will carry higher pollution levels.