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Patuakhāli, situated in the Khulna Division of Bangladesh (coordinates 22.2591° N, 90.3184° E), occupies a geographically significant position within the Bengal Delta. The city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the low-lying deltaic plains, with an average elevation barely exceeding a few meters above sea level. This low elevation renders Patuakhāli highly susceptible to flooding, particularly during the monsoon season, which can exacerbate air quality issues by mobilizing dust and pollutants. The city is interwoven with a network of rivers and canals, notably the Baleswar River, which influences local humidity and temperature patterns. Surrounding Patuakhāli is a mosaic of agricultural land, primarily rice paddies and jute fields, contributing to seasonal biomass burning and fugitive dust emissions. To the west and north lie more densely populated areas and nascent industrial zones, gradually encroaching upon the rural landscape. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with Patuakhāli acting as a regional trading hub and administrative center, drawing in populations from surrounding villages. The proximity to the Bay of Bengal, approximately 100 kilometers to the south, introduces a maritime influence, occasionally bringing in saline aerosols and impacting atmospheric stability. The flat topography and limited natural barriers contribute to the stagnation of pollutants, particularly during periods of low wind speed, creating localized air quality challenges. The deltaic soil composition, rich in silt and clay, also contributes to dust generation, especially during the dry season.

Patuakhāli’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by the region’s monsoon climate. The pre-monsoon season (March-May) typically witnesses a rise in particulate matter due to increased construction activity, agricultural burning of crop residues, and the prevalence of dry, hot winds. Dust storms are common, further degrading air quality. The monsoon season (June-September) brings relief as rainfall washes away pollutants and increased wind speeds disperse them. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to waterlogging and the release of pollutants from stagnant water sources. The post-monsoon season (October-November) often sees a resurgence of dust and smoke as farmers prepare fields for the next planting season, with burning practices contributing significantly. Fog, a frequent occurrence during the winter months (December-February), traps pollutants near the ground, creating conditions of poor visibility and elevated concentrations of fine particulate matter. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the pre-monsoon and post-monsoon periods, limiting outdoor exertion and wearing masks when necessary. The winter months, with their persistent fog, also demand heightened vigilance. While the monsoon season generally offers improved air quality, the potential for waterborne illnesses associated with flooding should be considered. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can provide a refuge during periods of elevated outdoor pollution.