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Xinhua, nestled within Gansu Province in northwestern China, occupies a unique geographic position along the upper reaches of the Tao River. Situated at coordinates 37.8291°N, 102.5986°E, the city’s terrain is characterised by a blend of loess plateau and alluvial plains, typical of the region. The surrounding landscape is dominated by the Qilian Mountains to the south, providing a dramatic backdrop and influencing local weather patterns. Xinhua’s elevation, approximately 1,500 meters (4,921 feet) above sea level, contributes to cooler temperatures and thinner air. The Tao River, while a vital water source, also acts as a potential pathway for pollutant dispersion. Historically an agricultural hub, Xinhua has seen increasing industrial development, particularly in sectors like chemical processing and mineral extraction, concentrated around the urban core. This industrial activity, coupled with agricultural practices like fertilizer use, significantly impacts air quality. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural land immediately surrounding the city, transitioning to more arid, mountainous terrain further afield. This proximity to both industrial and agricultural sources, combined with the topographic constraints of the plateau, creates conditions conducive to air pollution accumulation, particularly during periods of low wind speed and temperature inversion.

Xinhua experiences a pronounced continental climate, resulting in significant seasonal variations in air quality. Spring (March-May) often sees dust storms originating from the Gobi Desert to the north, dramatically increasing particulate matter concentrations. These events, combined with agricultural burning, create a period of poor air quality. Summers (June-August) are relatively cleaner, benefiting from occasional monsoon rains that help to wash pollutants from the atmosphere, though high temperatures can promote ozone formation. Autumn (September-November) is often considered the most pleasant time of year, with clear skies and moderate temperatures, but also witnesses a build-up of pollutants from winter heating preparations. Winter (December-February) is the most challenging period. Coal combustion for heating becomes widespread, leading to elevated levels of sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. Temperature inversions, common in the valley setting, trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the problem. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during winter and spring. Months to favour for outdoor activity are July and August, following the monsoon rains, though even then, monitoring conditions is advisable. Fog is also common in winter, further reducing visibility and trapping pollutants.