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Kadaň, nestled within the Ústecký Kraj of the Czech Republic, occupies a significant position in the Ore Mountains (Krušné hory) foothills. Its coordinates, 50.3761° N, 13.2714° E, place it within a basin-like terrain, a geological feature profoundly influencing its air quality. The city sits at an elevation of approximately 280 meters, contributing to potential temperature inversions, especially during colder months. The Ohře River flows nearby, offering some natural ventilation but also potentially trapping pollutants within the valley. Historically, Kadaň was a centre for coal mining and heavy industry, a legacy that continues to impact the region’s environmental profile. While industry has diversified, remnants of past pollution sources remain. Surrounding Kadaň are extensive forested areas of the Ore Mountains, providing a degree of natural filtration, but also agricultural lands to the south and east. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, transitioning quickly from the town’s built environment to the more natural landscape. This proximity to both industrial and agricultural zones, combined with the basin topography, creates a complex interplay of factors affecting air quality, making Kadaň particularly susceptible to localised pollution events and the accumulation of airborne particulates. The city’s location within a region historically reliant on brown coal extraction is a key determinant of its air quality challenges.

Kadaň’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern. Winter, from November to February, typically sees the poorest air quality. Low temperatures create stable atmospheric conditions, fostering temperature inversions that trap pollutants – particularly particulate matter from domestic heating using coal and wood – close to the ground. Calm winds exacerbate this issue. Spring (March-May) brings gradual improvement as temperatures rise and precipitation increases, washing pollutants from the air. However, agricultural activities can contribute to ammonia levels. Summer (June-August) generally offers the cleanest air, with higher temperatures promoting dispersion and prevailing winds carrying pollutants away. However, occasional heatwaves can lead to increased ozone formation. Autumn (September-October) marks a transition period. As heating systems are reactivated, particulate matter concentrations begin to rise again, often coupled with foggy conditions that reduce visibility and trap pollutants. Sensitive individuals – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during winter and autumn months. Monitoring local forecasts and avoiding exercise near busy roads is advisable. Periods of strong winds in spring and summer are generally favourable for outdoor activities, offering better air quality.