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Xinnongcun, nestled within Liaoning Province in northeastern China, occupies a geographically significant position within a region characterized by a blend of agricultural plains and rolling hills. Located at approximately 42.2357° N, 122.9455° E, the city’s terrain is gently undulating, facilitating both agricultural activity and urban development. Its proximity to the Liaodong Peninsula and the Bohai Sea influences local weather patterns, though the moderating effect of the sea is somewhat diminished by the distance and prevailing wind directions. The surrounding landscape is predominantly rural, comprising extensive farmland used for crops like corn and soybeans, interspersed with smaller villages and scattered orchards. This agricultural belt contributes to seasonal particulate matter, particularly during harvest periods. Xinnongcun sits within a gradual urban–rural gradient, transitioning from the more densely populated areas closer to Dalian to the quieter agricultural zones further inland. The elevation is relatively low, averaging around 50-100 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate air stagnation during periods of temperature inversion. The city’s location within the broader Liaoning industrial belt, while not directly adjacent to major heavy industries, means it is susceptible to pollutants transported from those sources via prevailing winds. The lack of significant natural barriers further contributes to this vulnerability, allowing for regional pollution episodes to impact air quality. The soil composition, largely loessial, can also contribute to dust emissions, particularly during dry and windy conditions.

Xinnongcun’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by regional weather patterns and agricultural practices. Winters, lasting from November to March, are typically the most challenging. Cold air masses frequently settle, leading to temperature inversions where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, preventing pollutants from dispersing. This, combined with reduced sunlight hours and increased coal burning for heating in surrounding rural areas, results in periods of elevated particulate matter. Spring (April-May) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and winds increase, though dust storms originating from the Gobi Desert can occasionally impact air quality. Agricultural activities, such as plowing and fertilizer application, also contribute to localized pollution during this period. Summer (June-August) generally sees the best air quality, thanks to increased rainfall, higher temperatures promoting atmospheric mixing, and reduced agricultural activity. However, periods of stagnant high pressure can still lead to localized pollution episodes. Autumn (September-October) marks a transition period. While rainfall decreases compared to summer, the increased agricultural activity, particularly harvesting, releases significant amounts of particulate matter into the air. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during winter and autumn months, limiting outdoor exposure during periods of poor visibility. During spring, monitoring local weather forecasts for dust storm warnings is crucial. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air purification can mitigate some of the risks associated with seasonal pollution fluctuations.