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Berettyóújfalu, nestled in the heart of Hungary’s Hajdú-Bihar county, occupies a relatively flat section of the Great Hungarian Plain (Alföld). Its coordinates, 47.2167° N, 21.5500° E, place it within a predominantly agricultural landscape, historically dominated by extensive farmland. The terrain is gently undulating, with an elevation generally below 100 meters, contributing to limited natural air dispersion. The city is situated approximately 20km from the Romanian border, influencing regional air currents and potentially receiving transboundary pollutants. The Körös River system, vital for irrigation, flows nearby, but doesn’t exert a strong direct influence on local air circulation patterns. Berettyóújfalu’s urban character is that of a regional centre, serving surrounding villages, with a mix of residential areas, commercial zones, and light industrial activity. The surrounding landscape is overwhelmingly agricultural, with significant cultivation of cereals and sunflowers. This agricultural activity contributes to seasonal particulate matter from harvesting and soil disturbance. The urban-rural gradient is relatively gradual, with smaller villages blending into the agricultural fields. The lack of significant topographical features hinders the flushing of pollutants, making the city susceptible to localized air quality issues, particularly during stable atmospheric conditions. The prevailing winds are generally westerly, but local factors can create stagnant air pockets.

Berettyóújfalu experiences a continental climate, resulting in distinct seasonal air quality patterns. Winter (December-February) often sees the poorest air quality, driven by increased reliance on solid fuel heating – coal and wood – for residential warmth. Temperature inversions are common during these months, trapping pollutants near the ground. Spring (March-May) brings a gradual improvement as heating demand decreases, but agricultural burning of crop residue can temporarily elevate particulate matter levels. Summer (June-August) typically offers the cleanest air, aided by prevailing winds and higher temperatures promoting dispersion, though ozone formation can become a concern on hot, sunny days. However, prolonged dry spells can exacerbate dust from agricultural fields. Autumn (September-November) sees a return to poorer conditions as heating begins again, combined with agricultural activities like harvesting. October and November are often particularly challenging. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during winter and autumn months. Monitoring pollen counts is also advisable during spring. Fog, common in the cooler months, can trap pollutants and reduce visibility, further impacting air quality. Avoiding peak hours near busy roads is always recommended.