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Dijiasuoxiang, nestled within Gansu province in northwestern China, occupies a geographically significant position within the Loess Plateau region. Located at approximately 35.6871° N, 105.2571° E, the city’s terrain is characterized by undulating hills and expansive plains sculpted by centuries of wind and water erosion. The surrounding landscape is dominated by the arid and semi-arid Loess Plateau, a vast expanse of wind-deposited silt, contributing to the region’s susceptibility to dust storms. Dijiasuoxiang sits at a moderate elevation, influencing temperature patterns and atmospheric stability. While not directly adjacent to major bodies of water, the Yellow River flows at a considerable distance to the east, impacting regional weather systems and potentially influencing moisture availability. The urban–rural gradient transitions rapidly from the small settlement to agricultural lands primarily used for dryland farming, including wheat and millet cultivation. Further afield, industrial activity is concentrated in larger urban centers within Gansu province, though some smaller-scale processing facilities may exist in the vicinity, contributing to localized pollution sources. The plateau’s topography, combined with the prevailing wind patterns, often leads to air stagnation, particularly during certain times of the year, exacerbating the impact of any emissions. The city’s relatively isolated location, while offering some protection from broader industrial pollution belts, also limits the dispersal of locally generated pollutants, creating a unique microclimate affecting air quality.

Dijiasuoxiang’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by the region’s climate. Winters (November – February) are typically the most challenging period. Cold air masses frequently settle over the Loess Plateau, creating stable atmospheric conditions and temperature inversions. These inversions trap pollutants near the ground, leading to increased concentrations of particulate matter. Dry winds, common during winter, exacerbate dust intrusion from the surrounding plateau, further degrading air quality. Spring (March – May) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and winds become more frequent, aiding in pollutant dispersion. However, spring also coincides with increased agricultural activity, potentially releasing dust and emissions from machinery. Summers (June – August) are generally characterized by more convective mixing, which helps to dilute pollutants, although occasional periods of stagnant air can still occur. The monsoon season brings sporadic rainfall, which can temporarily cleanse the atmosphere. Autumn (September – October) offers a period of relatively cleaner air, with moderate temperatures and wind patterns that facilitate pollutant dispersal. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during winter months, limiting outdoor exposure and monitoring local air quality reports. During spring, agricultural workers should take precautions against dust exposure. Overall, the dry and cold conditions of winter pose the greatest challenge to maintaining acceptable air quality in Dijiasuoxiang.