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Guiping is a county-level city in southeastern Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, strategically positioned along the Xun River, a major tributary of the Pearl River system. Situated at approximately 23.4°N latitude and 110.0833°E longitude, Guiping occupies a transitional zone between the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau to the west and the coastal plains of Guangdong to the east. The city's terrain is characterized by low hills and river valleys, with elevations generally ranging from 50 to 200 meters above sea level, creating a basin-like topography that can trap air pollutants. Guiping's urban core lies along the Xun River, which flows southeastward toward the Pearl River Delta, placing the city within the broader Pearl River Economic Zone—a region experiencing rapid urbanization and industrial development. The surrounding landscape consists primarily of agricultural lands, with rice paddies and orchards dominating the rural areas, though small-scale manufacturing and processing facilities have emerged in peri-urban zones. This urban-rural gradient means that while Guiping lacks heavy industry compared to major metropolitan centers, it still experiences pollution from transportation, residential heating, and agricultural burning. The city's location in a river valley, surrounded by hills, contributes to atmospheric stagnation, particularly during calm weather conditions, while its proximity to the South China Sea influences humidity levels and seasonal wind patterns that can either disperse or concentrate pollutants.

Guiping's air quality follows distinct seasonal patterns influenced by the East Asian monsoon system and local meteorological conditions. During winter (December to February), cooler temperatures and frequent temperature inversions in the river valley trap pollutants near the surface, leading to the year's worst air quality episodes; sensitive groups such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions should limit outdoor activities during this period, especially on calm, foggy mornings. Spring (March to May) brings transitional weather with increasing rainfall from the pre-monsoon season, which helps wash out particulate matter, though occasional biomass burning from agricultural practices can cause temporary spikes in pollution. Summer (June to August) sees the southwest monsoon delivering moist air from the South China Sea, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and stronger winds that effectively disperse pollutants, making this the most favorable season for outdoor activities despite high humidity. Autumn (September to November) typically offers the cleanest air as monsoon rains taper off but before winter stagnation sets in, with pleasant temperatures and moderate winds providing good ventilation; however, late autumn can see increased pollution from crop residue burning. Throughout the year, fog formation in the river valley, particularly in winter and early spring, can exacerbate pollution by combining with particulate matter to create haze, while temperature inversions remain the primary meteorological driver of poor air quality during colder months.