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Daxiang, nestled within Guangdong Province, China, occupies a geographically significant position within the Pearl River Delta, a region renowned for its rapid urbanization and industrial development. Located at approximately 22.3775° N, 112.8008° E, the city’s terrain is characterized by gently rolling hills and alluvial plains, typical of the delta landscape. Its elevation is relatively low, averaging around 30-50 meters above sea level, contributing to a humid subtropical climate. The proximity to the Pearl River, a major waterway, influences local weather patterns and provides a crucial transportation artery. Daxiang sits within a transitional zone, exhibiting a gradual urban-rural gradient. To the west, agricultural lands, primarily rice paddies and vegetable farms, extend outwards, while to the east and south, the urban sprawl of Shenzhen and Dongguan looms, representing a significant industrial belt. This juxtaposition creates a complex interplay of factors impacting air quality. The surrounding landscape, a mix of cultivated fields and increasingly urbanized areas, contributes to both particulate matter (from agricultural practices and construction) and gaseous pollutants (from industrial emissions). The low elevation and relatively flat terrain can exacerbate the trapping of pollutants, particularly during periods of stagnant air. Furthermore, Daxiang’s location within the delta means it is susceptible to influences from regional pollution sources, carried by prevailing winds from upriver industrial zones. The city’s growth, while bringing economic opportunities, has also intensified the pressures on its environmental quality, making air quality management a critical concern.

Daxiang’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by its humid subtropical climate and the influence of the East Asian monsoon. The wet season, spanning roughly from April to September, generally sees improved air quality due to increased rainfall, which naturally washes pollutants from the atmosphere. However, periods of heavy rainfall can also lead to localized flooding and the release of pollutants from inundated areas. The dry season, from October to March, presents a more challenging scenario. During these months, cooler temperatures often lead to temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air (and pollutants) near the ground, resulting in stagnant air conditions. November and December frequently experience the worst air quality, coinciding with increased industrial activity and reduced wind speeds. Fog, common during the winter months, further exacerbates the problem by trapping pollutants. Spring (March-April) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and the monsoon begins to assert itself. Summer (June-August) is typically the cleanest period, although occasional typhoons can temporarily disrupt air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of fog or temperature inversions. Limiting outdoor exertion and wearing appropriate masks are advisable. During the wet season, while generally cleaner, vigilance is still needed, especially after heavy rainfall events, as localized pollution spikes can occur.