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Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, Canada, occupies a strategic position in the North Saskatchewan River Valley, approximately 300 kilometres north of the U.S. border. Situated at an elevation of about 668 metres above sea level, the city's geography is defined by the deep, meandering river valley that bisects the urban core, creating a distinctive topography of rolling hills and ravines. This valley system, one of the largest urban parklands in North America, significantly influences local air quality by acting as a natural corridor for wind dispersion, though it can also trap pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. Edmonton lies within the vast Alberta Plain, surrounded by expansive agricultural lands to the east and south, which contribute seasonal particulate matter from farming activities. To the west, the city edges toward the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, though industrial zones, particularly in the northeast and southeast sectors, host oil refining, chemical manufacturing, and transportation hubs that emit pollutants like nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds. The urban–rural gradient is sharp, with suburban sprawl transitioning quickly to farmland, while the river valley provides a green buffer. Proximity to major water bodies is limited to the North Saskatchewan River, which moderates local humidity but has minimal direct impact on pollution dispersal. Edmonton's location in a continental climate zone, combined with its terrain, makes it susceptible to temperature inversions, especially in winter, when cold air settles in the valley, trapping emissions from heating, vehicles, and industry, thereby exacerbating air quality issues in the urban basin.

Edmonton's air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern shaped by its continental climate, with cold, dry winters and warm, variable summers. In winter, typically from November to February, pollution peaks due to temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cold air and pollutants near the ground, leading to elevated levels of particulate matter (PM2.5) from residential heating, vehicle exhaust, and industrial emissions. Sensitive groups, such as those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, should limit prolonged outdoor activities during these months, especially on calm, cold days. Spring, from March to May, brings improved air quality as increasing temperatures and more frequent winds disperse pollutants, though occasional dust storms from agricultural fields can cause short-term spikes in particulate matter. Summer, from June to August, sees generally good air quality with moderate pollution from traffic and industrial sources, but wildfires in Alberta and British Columbia can lead to episodic smoke events, making July and August months to monitor for outdoor plans; vulnerable individuals should stay indoors during smoke advisories. Autumn, from September to October, offers favourable conditions with cooler temperatures and steady winds reducing pollution buildup, making it an ideal time for outdoor recreation. Throughout the year, fog is rare but can occur in winter, exacerbating visibility and pollution retention. Health guidance emphasizes checking local air quality indexes daily, using air purifiers during inversion or wildfire events, and planning activities for mornings or evenings when pollution levels are often lower.