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Yangjiang occupies a distinctive coastal position in southwestern Guangdong province, where the Pearl River Delta's industrial sprawl meets the more rural landscapes of western Guangdong. Situated at approximately 21.8570°N, 111.9830°E, the city faces the South China Sea to its south, with its urban core nestled along the Yangjiang River estuary. This maritime adjacency creates a complex interplay between oceanic influences and continental emissions. The terrain transitions from flat coastal plains in the south to rolling hills and low mountains in the northern districts, with elevations generally below 500 meters, though nearby peaks like Mount Ehuang reach over 1,000 meters. This topography can trap pollutants when winds are light, particularly in inland valleys. Yangjiang lies just west of the massive Pearl River Delta industrial belt, receiving transported pollution via prevailing easterly winds, while also generating its own emissions from urban activities, port operations, and local manufacturing. The city's 2.5 million residents are concentrated in the coastal urban corridor, creating a sharp urban-rural gradient where cleaner air prevails in agricultural zones growing lychees, longans, and rice. The South China Sea provides natural ventilation, but during certain meteorological conditions, marine layers can actually suppress vertical mixing, worsening pollution episodes. Yangjiang's position as a regional transportation hub with highways and port facilities adds mobile emission sources to its air quality challenges.

Yangjiang's air quality follows a distinct seasonal rhythm shaped by the East Asian monsoon system. During winter (December-February), northeasterly monsoon winds transport industrial pollutants from the Pearl River Delta region, combining with local emissions to create the year's worst pollution episodes. Temperature inversions are common in these cooler months, trapping pollutants near the surface, particularly during calm mornings. Spring (March-May) brings transitional weather with variable winds and increasing humidity, leading to moderate pollution levels that occasionally spike during stagnant high-pressure systems. The summer monsoon (June-August) dramatically improves air quality as strong southwesterly winds from the South China Sea flush the region with clean marine air, though high temperatures can accelerate ozone formation on sunny days. Autumn (September-November) sees gradually deteriorating conditions as monsoon winds weaken and pollution begins accumulating again. Sensitive groups including those with respiratory conditions, children, and the elderly should minimize outdoor exertion during winter pollution episodes and on days with visible haze. The best months for outdoor activities are typically June through August when marine winds prevail, though afternoon heat requires hydration precautions. During pollution events, staying indoors with windows closed and using air purifiers can reduce exposure. Monitoring local air quality forecasts is particularly important during the winter months when conditions change rapidly.