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Mahilyow, situated in eastern Belarus along the Dnieper River at coordinates 53.9167°N, 30.3500°E, occupies a strategic position within the Mahilyowskaya Voblasts' region, approximately 200 kilometres east of Minsk. The city's geography is characterised by the gently undulating terrain of the East European Plain, with an average elevation of 190 metres above sea level, creating a relatively flat landscape that minimally disrupts atmospheric flow. Nestled on the western bank of the Dnieper, Mahilyow benefits from the river's moderating influence on local microclimates, though this proximity also contributes to occasional fog formation that can trap pollutants. The urban area spans both banks, with industrial zones concentrated in the eastern and southern districts, while the western periphery transitions into agricultural lands dedicated to grain and potato cultivation. This urban–rural gradient means that seasonal agricultural burning and fertiliser use can introduce particulate matter and ammonia compounds into the air, particularly during spring and autumn. The city's location within a continental climate zone, devoid of major mountain barriers, allows for the unimpeded transport of air masses from industrial regions in Russia and Ukraine, which can elevate background pollution levels. The Dnieper River valley occasionally acts as a conduit for these transboundary pollutants, especially under stable atmospheric conditions. Mahilyow's compact urban form, with Soviet-era industrial infrastructure interspersed with residential areas, creates localized emission hotspots, while the lack of significant green belts within the city core limits natural air filtration.

In Mahilyow, air quality follows a distinct seasonal rhythm shaped by continental climate patterns, with pollution peaks typically occurring during winter and late autumn. Winter months, particularly December through February, see the highest pollution levels due to increased residential heating from coal and wood combustion, coupled with frequent temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground. These inversions are exacerbated by calm winds and prolonged periods of high atmospheric pressure, creating stagnant air conditions that can persist for days. Sensitive groups, such as those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, should limit prolonged outdoor exposure during these months and consider using air purifiers indoors. Spring brings gradual improvement as temperatures rise and precipitation increases, dispersing pollutants, though March and April may experience episodic spikes from agricultural burning and road dust resuspension after snowmelt. Summer offers the cleanest air, with June to August benefiting from active atmospheric mixing, frequent rainfall, and dominant westerly winds that ventilate the urban area; this is the optimal time for outdoor activities. However, occasional heatwaves in July can elevate ground-level ozone, particularly in sunny, windless conditions. Autumn sees a deterioration from October onward, as falling temperatures revive heating emissions and reduced daylight hours decrease photochemical reactions that break down pollutants. Fog events become more common in November, further impairing air quality by trapping particulate matter. Year-round, sensitive individuals should monitor local air quality reports and avoid vigorous exercise during morning hours when inversion layers are most pronounced.