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Jishi, nestled within the rugged terrain of Qinghai Province, China, occupies a geographically significant position at approximately 35.8461° N, 102.4817° E. The city’s location within the Tibetan Plateau profoundly shapes its environment and, consequently, its air quality. Situated at a considerable elevation – around 3,300 meters (10,827 feet) above sea level – Jishi experiences a high-altitude climate characterized by thin air and intense solar radiation. The surrounding landscape is dominated by the Qilian Mountains, a formidable range that influences regional weather patterns and creates a rain shadow effect, limiting precipitation. This aridity contributes to lower atmospheric moisture, which can exacerbate particulate matter concentrations. Jishi’s proximity to agricultural lands, particularly those utilizing traditional farming practices, introduces potential sources of dust and biomass burning, especially during harvest seasons. While not directly adjacent to major rivers, snowmelt from the Qilian Mountains feeds smaller streams and contributes to localized humidity. The urban–rural gradient around Jishi is relatively sharp, transitioning quickly from the built environment to extensive grasslands and sparsely populated pastoral areas. The city’s limited industrial base, primarily focused on local processing of agricultural products, minimizes large-scale industrial emissions, though smaller workshops and vehicle traffic still contribute to localized pollution. The mountainous terrain also creates areas of limited air circulation, potentially trapping pollutants within valleys and contributing to stagnant air conditions.

Jishi’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by its high-altitude climate and regional weather systems. Winters (November – February) are typically the most challenging period. Cold temperatures frequently lead to temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, preventing vertical mixing and concentrating pollutants. Combined with reduced sunlight hours and limited wind speeds, this results in prolonged periods of stagnant air and increased particulate matter. Spring (March – May) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and wind speeds increase, dispersing pollutants. However, dust storms originating from the Gobi Desert can occasionally impact air quality during this transitional season. Summers (June – August) are generally the most favorable time for outdoor activities, with increased rainfall and stronger winds helping to cleanse the atmosphere. The monsoon season brings periods of relatively clean air, although occasional thunderstorms can temporarily elevate ozone levels. Autumn (September – October) sees a return to more challenging conditions as temperatures cool and wind speeds decrease. Agricultural burning, a common practice for clearing fields after harvest, significantly contributes to particulate matter pollution during this period. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during winter and autumn months, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure and utilizing appropriate respiratory protection when necessary. Spring dust events require similar precautions. During the summer months, while generally cleaner, brief periods of elevated ozone warrant awareness.