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Zhenjiang occupies a strategic position in China's Yangtze River Delta region, situated at the confluence of the Yangtze River and the Grand Canal, approximately 80 kilometers east of Nanjing. This historic city straddles the southern bank of the Yangtze River, with its urban core nestled between low hills and the river's edge, creating a distinctive terrain where urban development meets natural waterways. The city's elevation ranges from near sea level along the riverbanks to modest hills reaching about 200 meters, creating subtle microclimatic variations that influence pollution dispersion. Zhenjiang lies within the densely populated and heavily industrialized Yangtze River Economic Belt, surrounded by manufacturing zones, chemical plants, and port facilities that contribute significantly to regional air pollution. The city's position downstream from major industrial centers like Nanjing means it often receives transported pollutants via prevailing winds, while its own urban emissions from transportation, construction, and local industry add to the burden. The Yangtze River valley acts as a natural corridor that can trap pollutants under certain meteorological conditions, particularly during temperature inversions. Zhenjiang's urban-rural gradient shows decreasing pollution levels as one moves southward toward the agricultural zones of southern Jiangsu, though the entire region faces air quality challenges due to its economic activity density. The city's proximity to water bodies provides some moderating effects but also contributes to humidity that can exacerbate particulate matter formation.

Zhenjiang experiences distinct seasonal air quality patterns shaped by East Asian monsoons and local meteorological conditions. Winter (December-February) typically brings the poorest air quality, with frequent temperature inversions trapping pollutants near the surface, combined with increased coal burning for heating and stagnant atmospheric conditions. Sensitive groups should limit prolonged outdoor exposure during these months, particularly during morning hours when inversions are strongest. Spring (March-May) sees gradual improvement as temperatures rise and precipitation increases, though dust storms from northern China can occasionally elevate particulate levels. Late spring offers some of the year's better air quality windows. Summer (June-August) benefits from the East Asian summer monsoon, with southerly winds bringing cleaner oceanic air and frequent rainfall that scrubs pollutants from the atmosphere. However, high temperatures and sunlight can trigger ozone formation, creating afternoon peaks that asthma sufferers should monitor. Autumn (September-November) begins with relatively good conditions but deteriorates as monsoon winds shift, industrial activity increases, and agricultural burning in surrounding regions contributes to haze episodes. The transition months of October and November often see rapid air quality deterioration. Throughout the year, fog formation along the Yangtze River valley can combine with pollution to create health-adverse smog conditions, particularly during calm wind periods.