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Le Petit-Quevilly, nestled in the heart of Normandy, France, occupies a strategically significant position just across the Seine River from Rouen, the regional capital. Its coordinates (49.4311, 1.0539) place it within a gently undulating terrain, characterized by fluvial plains and low hills, typical of the Normandy region. The city’s geography is profoundly shaped by its proximity to the Seine, a major waterway influencing local climate and, crucially, air circulation patterns. The surrounding landscape is a blend of urban and rural elements; to the west lie agricultural fields, predominantly used for cereal cultivation and livestock grazing, while Rouen’s urban sprawl dominates the eastern view. This urban–rural gradient creates a complex interplay of pollution sources. Le Petit-Quevilly’s elevation is relatively low, averaging around 30-50 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate the trapping of pollutants during periods of temperature inversion. The presence of Rouen, a historical industrial hub, means the city is susceptible to transboundary pollution, with industrial emissions carried by prevailing winds. The river itself, while a vital resource, can also contribute to localized air quality issues through shipping activity and occasional industrial discharge. The city’s urban character is primarily residential, with a mix of detached houses and apartment buildings, contributing to localized emissions from domestic heating and transportation. The relatively flat topography limits natural dispersion of pollutants, making the city’s air quality particularly sensitive to meteorological conditions and regional industrial activity.

Le Petit-Quevilly’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by regional weather patterns. Winter months (December-February) often present the greatest challenges. Cold temperatures lead to increased domestic heating reliant on wood or gas, contributing to particulate matter (PM) pollution. Furthermore, frequent temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, impede vertical mixing and concentrate pollutants. Fog, common during these months, further exacerbates the problem by reducing visibility and trapping emissions. Spring (March-May) typically sees an improvement as temperatures rise, and wind speeds increase, facilitating pollutant dispersion. However, agricultural activities, such as fertilizer application, can contribute to ammonia emissions. Summer (June-August) generally offers the best air quality, with warm, dry conditions and frequent breezes. However, heatwaves can occasionally lead to stagnant air and ozone formation. Autumn (September-November) marks a transitional period, with decreasing temperatures and increasing rainfall. Rainfall helps to cleanse the atmosphere, but the return of cooler air can trigger temperature inversions, particularly in October and November. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should be particularly cautious during winter months, limiting outdoor activity on days with poor visibility or noticeable odors. During periods of agricultural activity in spring, minimizing exposure near fields is advisable. While summer generally offers cleaner air, heatwaves warrant caution, especially during peak sunlight hours.