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Polýgyros, the capital of Chalkidiki, Greece, occupies a strategically significant position within the Kentrikí Makedonía region. Nestled at the foot of the Itamos mountain range, its geography is defined by a gentle slope descending towards the Chorá River valley and the Aegean Sea, approximately 8 kilometers to the east. The city’s elevation averages around 300 meters above sea level, contributing to localized microclimates and influencing air circulation patterns. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of olive groves, vineyards, and pine forests, characteristic of the broader Chalkidiki peninsula. This agricultural zone, while generally beneficial, can contribute to particulate matter during harvest seasons due to agricultural burning practices, though regulations are increasingly enforced. Polýgyros sits within a transitional zone between the mountainous interior and the coastal plains, creating a complex urban-rural gradient. The proximity to the Aegean Sea introduces a maritime influence, moderating temperatures and occasionally bringing in sea breezes that can disperse pollutants. While there are no major industrial belts directly adjacent to Polýgyros, Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city and a significant industrial hub, lies approximately 60 kilometers to the west. This proximity means that Thessaloniki’s air pollution episodes can, under certain meteorological conditions, impact air quality in Polýgyros. The terrain, with the Itamos mountains to the west, can also create barriers to airflow, potentially trapping pollutants during periods of stagnant air. The Chorá River, though relatively small, plays a role in local humidity and can influence fog formation, impacting air quality under specific conditions.

Polýgyros experiences a Mediterranean climate, dictating a distinct seasonal pattern in air quality. Summers (June-August) are typically hot and dry, characterized by prolonged periods of sunshine and minimal rainfall. This often leads to stagnant air conditions, particularly during heatwaves, which can exacerbate the impact of any existing pollutants. Temperature inversions, common during these months, trap cooler air near the ground, preventing vertical mixing and concentrating pollutants. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) generally offer the most favourable air quality, with moderate temperatures and more frequent rainfall, which naturally cleanses the atmosphere. However, agricultural burning, a traditional practice, can significantly degrade air quality during the autumn harvest season. Winters (December-February) are relatively mild and wetter, with occasional periods of fog, especially in the Chorá River valley. Fog can trap pollutants close to the ground, reducing visibility and increasing exposure. The prevailing winds, typically from the northwest during the spring and autumn, help to disperse pollutants, but their strength and direction can vary considerably. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the summer months and be aware of potential agricultural burning in the autumn. During periods of stagnant air or fog, limiting outdoor exertion and avoiding areas with high traffic density is advisable. Maintaining awareness of local weather forecasts and any public health advisories is crucial for protecting respiratory health throughout the year.