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Nantou, nestled within Guangdong province in southern China, occupies a geographically complex position that significantly influences its air quality. Located at approximately 22.72°N, 113.29°E, the city sits within the Pearl River Delta, a region characterized by rapid urbanization and intensive industrial activity. The terrain is predominantly hilly, with elevations ranging from around 30 meters near the Pearl River to over 600 meters in the western fringes, creating localized variations in air flow and pollutant dispersion. Nantou’s proximity to the Pearl River itself offers some degree of moisture and potential for coastal breezes, though these are often overridden by regional weather patterns. The surrounding landscape is a mix of agricultural land – primarily rice paddies and fruit orchards – and increasingly, peri-urban development. To the north and west lie more substantial mountain ranges, which can trap pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with dense urban areas transitioning quickly to agricultural zones and then to forested hills. This gradient contributes to a complex interplay of pollutants originating from industrial belts further north within the Delta and agricultural practices closer to the city. The Pearl River Delta's overall industrial concentration, including manufacturing and port activities, casts a long shadow on Nantou's air quality, making it susceptible to transboundary pollution events. The city’s location within a subtropical monsoon climate further complicates the picture, with seasonal shifts in wind patterns and precipitation impacting pollutant dispersal.

Nantou’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the subtropical monsoon climate. The wet season, typically spanning from April to September, brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity, generally leading to improved air quality as pollutants are washed from the atmosphere. However, periods of persistent fog, common during the late summer months, can trap pollutants close to the ground, creating localized episodes of reduced visibility and elevated concentrations. The dry season, from October to March, presents a more challenging scenario. Cooler temperatures during these months often lead to temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air sits above cooler air near the surface, preventing vertical mixing and trapping pollutants. Agricultural burning, a traditional practice for clearing fields in the autumn, also contributes to particulate matter pollution during this period. November and December often experience the poorest air quality due to a combination of temperature inversions, reduced rainfall, and agricultural activities. January and February can be slightly better, but still prone to periods of stagnation. Spring (March-April) sees a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and rainfall increases. 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 better, periods of fog still warrant caution, and those with sensitivities should monitor local conditions.