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Xinhualu, situated in central Henan Province at coordinates 34.3964°N, 113.7402°E, occupies a strategic position within China's North China Plain, approximately 80 kilometres south of the provincial capital Zhengzhou. This urban district of Zhengzhou City lies at an elevation of around 100-150 metres above sea level, characterised by flat to gently undulating terrain typical of the Yellow River alluvial plain. The region's geography profoundly influences air quality through several mechanisms. Xinhualu is enveloped by intensive agricultural zones to the east and south, where wheat and corn cultivation dominates, contributing seasonal biomass burning emissions. To the north and west, it merges into Zhengzhou's expanding urban-industrial corridor, part of the broader Central Plains Economic Zone—a manufacturing and logistics hub with associated vehicular, construction, and industrial pollution. The district itself exhibits a pronounced urban-rural gradient, with dense residential and commercial cores transitioning to peri-urban fringes. Crucially, Xinhualu lies approximately 30 kilometres north of the Jialu River, a tributary of the Huai River, but lacks major water bodies within its immediate vicinity, reducing natural ventilation effects. Its location in a basin-like topography, surrounded by the Taihang Mountains to the north and Funiu Mountains to the south at distances of 100-150 kilometres, creates a semi-enclosed airshed that traps pollutants under stable atmospheric conditions. This geographic setting, combined with high population density exceeding 1.17 million, results in complex air quality dynamics where local emissions interact with regional transport from neighbouring industrial areas.

Xinhualu's air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern shaped by the East Asian monsoon and local meteorological conditions. During winter (December-February), pollution typically peaks due to a combination of increased coal combustion for heating, frequent temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the surface, and reduced precipitation. Cold, stagnant air masses from Siberia often bring calm winds and persistent fog, creating hazardous conditions where PM2.5 concentrations can remain elevated for days. Sensitive groups should limit outdoor activities during these months, especially during morning hours when inversions are strongest. Spring (March-May) brings gradual improvement as temperatures rise and winds shift, though March-April may experience dust storms from the Gobi Desert, adding coarse particulate matter. This season offers moderate conditions for outdoor activities, particularly after rainfall events. Summer (June-August) sees the cleanest air due to the East Asian summer monsoon, which brings southeasterly winds from the ocean, increased ventilation, and frequent rainfall that scavenges pollutants. However, high temperatures and sunlight can trigger ozone formation, making afternoon hours less ideal for those with respiratory conditions. Autumn (September-November) begins with relatively good air quality in September but deteriorates through October-November as heating season commences, winds weaken, and atmospheric stability increases. The transition months of October and November often see rapid pollution buildup, making early autumn preferable for outdoor pursuits. Year-round, sensitive individuals should monitor daily conditions and plan activities for midday when mixing heights are highest.