Chuzhou occupies a strategic position in eastern Anhui Province, situated approximately 50 kilometers northwest of Nanjing across the Yangtze River, placing it within the influential Nanjing Metropolitan Circle. The city's geography is characterized by the transitional zone between the North China Plain and the Yangtze River Delta, with terrain featuring low hills and alluvial plains, averaging around 20-40 meters above sea level. This positioning creates a distinctive urban-rural gradient where Chuzhou's urban core blends into surrounding agricultural lands and smaller industrial zones. The city lies near the Huai River basin, with several smaller tributaries like the Chu River flowing through the area, though not directly adjacent to major water bodies that might significantly moderate pollution. Chuzhou's location within the Yangtze River Economic Belt means it experiences air quality influences from both local urban emissions and regional transport from the heavily industrialized Yangtze River Delta to the southeast. The surrounding landscape includes agricultural zones producing rice and wheat, interspersed with manufacturing facilities typical of China's eastern industrial corridor. This combination of urban expansion, regional industrial activity, and agricultural practices creates complex pollution dynamics, with the city's relatively low elevation and inland position limiting natural ventilation compared to coastal cities.

Chuzhou experiences distinct seasonal air quality patterns shaped by East Asian monsoons and regional meteorological conditions. During winter (December-February), cold, stable atmospheric conditions frequently lead to temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the surface, compounded by increased residential heating emissions. This period typically sees the highest pollution levels, with January often being the most challenging month for air quality. Spring (March-May) brings transitional weather with occasional dust transport from northern regions, though increasing wind speeds and precipitation gradually improve dispersion conditions. Summer (June-August) offers the cleanest air as the East Asian summer monsoon brings southeasterly winds from the ocean, enhanced convection disperses pollutants, and frequent rainfall scrubs the atmosphere. However, high temperatures can occasionally elevate ozone levels during afternoon hours. Autumn (September-November) begins with relatively good conditions that gradually deteriorate as monsoon winds retreat, atmospheric stability increases, and agricultural burning may contribute to particulate matter. Sensitive groups including children, elderly residents, and those with respiratory conditions should minimize outdoor exertion during winter pollution episodes and on days with visible haze or stagnant conditions. The most favorable months for outdoor activities are typically June through September, when both temperature and air quality conditions are most hospitable.