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Dexing is a county-level city in northeastern Jiangxi Province, China, situated in the transitional zone between the Poyang Lake Plain to the west and the Wuyi Mountains to the east. Nestled at coordinates 28.9306°N, 117.5947°E, the city occupies a valley along the Le'an River, a tributary of the larger Poyang Lake system, with an average elevation of approximately 100 meters above sea level. This location places Dexing within the broader Yangtze River Delta economic region, though it lies inland from major coastal industrial hubs like Shanghai. The surrounding terrain is characterized by rolling hills and low mountains, which can trap pollutants under certain meteorological conditions, particularly during temperature inversions. Dexing is renowned as China's 'Copper Capital,' hosting one of the largest copper mining and smelting complexes in Asia—the Dexing Copper Mine—which significantly influences local air quality through industrial emissions. The urban area blends with rural landscapes, with agricultural zones producing rice, tea, and citrus fruits, contributing occasional biomass burning during harvest seasons. Proximity to Poyang Lake, China's largest freshwater lake, offers some moderating effects on pollution through increased humidity and occasional lake breezes, but these are often offset by industrial activities. The city's position in a river valley, combined with its industrial focus, creates a unique air quality profile where topography and human activity intersect to concentrate pollutants, particularly particulate matter and sulfur compounds from mining operations.

Dexing's air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern shaped by its subtropical monsoon climate, industrial emissions, and local topography. In spring (March to May), increasing temperatures and frequent rainfall help disperse pollutants, making this season relatively favorable for outdoor activities, though occasional fog and lingering winter inversions can cause short-term spikes. Summer (June to August) brings the East Asian monsoon, with heavy rains and southerly winds from the South China Sea that effectively cleanse the air, resulting in the cleanest conditions of the year; however, high humidity and heat can exacerbate respiratory issues for sensitive groups. Autumn (September to November) sees a gradual deterioration as monsoon rains retreat, temperatures drop, and stable atmospheric conditions set in, leading to increased pollution accumulation, particularly in October and November when temperature inversions become common in the valley. Winter (December to February) is the peak pollution season, with cold, stagnant air, frequent temperature inversions, and low wind speeds trapping industrial emissions and domestic heating pollutants near the ground; this period poses significant risks for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, who should limit outdoor exposure. Throughout the year, sensitive groups are advised to monitor local air quality reports, use air purifiers indoors during high-pollution episodes, and schedule outdoor activities for mornings after rainfall when pollutant levels are typically lower.