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Huizhou occupies a strategic position in Guangdong Province, nestled along the northeastern shores of the Pearl River Delta, approximately 80 kilometres east of Guangzhou and 70 kilometres northeast of Shenzhen. This coastal city straddles the transition between the Pearl River Delta's dense urban-industrial belt and the more mountainous, forested interior of eastern Guangdong. Its terrain is predominantly hilly, with the Lotus Mountain range to the northeast and the coastal plains opening towards the South China Sea, creating a varied elevation profile that influences local airflow patterns. The Dongjiang River flows through the city, providing water resources but also acting as a corridor for pollutant transport. Huizhou's location within the Greater Bay Area economic zone subjects it to regional pollution from neighbouring megacities, while its own industrial zones—specialising in petrochemicals, electronics, and manufacturing—contribute local emissions. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced, with dense urban cores along the coast giving way to agricultural lands and protected forest areas inland. This geography creates complex air quality dynamics: sea breezes can disperse pollutants, but temperature inversions in valley areas trap emissions, and the city's position downwind of major industrial centres means it often receives transported pollution, particularly during northeasterly monsoons.

Huizhou's air quality follows a distinct seasonal rhythm shaped by the East Asian monsoon system. In winter (December-February), northeasterly winds transport pollutants from industrial regions north of the city, while cooler temperatures and frequent temperature inversions trap emissions near the ground, creating the year's worst air quality; sensitive groups should limit outdoor exertion during this period. Spring (March-May) brings transitional weather with variable winds and occasional rainfall that temporarily clears the air, though haze can persist during calm spells. Summer (June-August) offers the cleanest air due to the prevailing southerly monsoon from the South China Sea, which brings strong, consistent breezes and convective rainfall that effectively disperse and wash out pollutants; this is the ideal season for outdoor activities. Autumn (September-November) sees a gradual deterioration as monsoon winds weaken and temperatures drop, leading to increased pollution buildup, particularly in October and November when stagnant conditions become common. Throughout the year, coastal fog can mix with pollutants to create haze, especially in spring and autumn. Residents with respiratory conditions should monitor daily forecasts closely during winter and autumn, while generally enjoying better conditions in summer.