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Kateríni, nestled in the regional unit of Pieria in Kentrikí Makedonía, Greece, occupies a significant geographical position between the foothills of Mount Olympus and the Thermaic Gulf. The city’s terrain is largely flat, transitioning from the coastal plain inland, facilitating urban sprawl but also influencing air circulation patterns. At coordinates 40.2667, 22.5000, Kateríni benefits from a Mediterranean climate, but its proximity to the sea and the mountainous barrier creates localized microclimates. The surrounding landscape is a mix of intensive agriculture – Pieria is a major agricultural region known for its kiwis, peaches, and tomatoes – and increasingly, tourism related to Mount Olympus. This agricultural activity contributes to potential ammonia emissions, impacting particulate matter formation. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural land immediately bordering the city limits. Industrial activity is present, though not concentrated in massive belts, but rather dispersed in smaller facilities supporting the agricultural sector and local manufacturing. The prevailing winds, often blowing from the north and northwest off Mount Olympus, can either flush pollutants out to sea or, under stable atmospheric conditions, trap them within the coastal plain, exacerbating air quality issues. The city’s location within a valley-like formation further influences pollutant dispersion.

Kateríni’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern. Winter (December-February) often sees the poorest air quality, driven by temperature inversions trapping pollutants from domestic heating – primarily wood burning – close to the ground. Calm conditions and increased humidity contribute to the formation of secondary pollutants. Spring (March-May) brings improvement as temperatures rise and winds become more frequent, dispersing pollutants. However, agricultural activities intensify, potentially increasing ammonia levels. Summer (June-August) generally offers the best air quality, with strong sea breezes flushing out pollutants and high temperatures promoting their dispersion. However, heatwaves can exacerbate ozone formation. Autumn (September-November) sees a transition, with decreasing temperatures and calmer conditions leading to a gradual decline in air quality. Agricultural burning of crop residue, a common practice, significantly impacts particulate matter levels during this period. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during winter and autumn months. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; winds from the north can bring pollutants down from the mountains, while southerly winds offer cleaner air. Fog, common in winter, can trap pollutants and reduce visibility, further impacting respiratory health.