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Kerepestarcsa, nestled within Pest County, Hungary, occupies a geographically significant position on the edge of the Budapest metropolitan area. Located approximately 15 kilometers northeast of the Hungarian capital, its coordinates (47.5478, 19.2633) place it within the Great Hungarian Plain, though its terrain exhibits subtle undulations characteristic of the foothills transitioning towards the Buda Hills. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, a patchwork of fields used for crop cultivation and livestock grazing, contributing to seasonal biomass burning and potential dust emissions. The urban–rural gradient is notably sharp; Kerepestarcsa retains a distinctly village-like character despite its proximity to a major urban center. Elevation ranges from roughly 110 to 130 meters above sea level, influencing local wind patterns and dispersion of pollutants. While not directly adjacent to a major river, the area benefits from the drainage network of smaller streams flowing towards the Danube, which can, under certain conditions, influence humidity and atmospheric stability. The city’s location within the Budapest agglomeration means it is inevitably affected by the broader regional industrial activity and transportation emissions emanating from the capital and surrounding industrial zones. This includes potential impacts from the M0 motorway, which runs nearby, and the associated vehicular traffic. The relatively flat terrain, while facilitating agriculture, can also exacerbate the accumulation of pollutants, particularly during periods of low wind speed and temperature inversions, hindering effective atmospheric mixing.

Kerepestarcsa’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by meteorological conditions and agricultural practices. Spring (March-May) often sees elevated particulate matter levels due to agricultural burning – a traditional practice for land clearing and residue disposal, though increasingly regulated. This, combined with increased pollen counts, can trigger respiratory sensitivities. Summer (June-August) generally offers the best air quality, with higher temperatures promoting atmospheric stability and increased convective mixing, dispersing pollutants. However, heatwaves can lead to stagnant air and ozone formation, particularly during sunny, calm days. Autumn (September-November) brings a resurgence of particulate matter, this time from harvest activities and the initial onset of cooler temperatures which can lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. Fog, common during autumn mornings, further exacerbates this issue. Winter (December-February) typically presents the most challenging air quality conditions. Cold, stable air masses, frequent temperature inversions, and reduced sunlight hours contribute to pollutant accumulation. Residential heating, often reliant on solid fuels, adds to the particulate burden. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor exertion during periods of fog, temperature inversions, and agricultural burning. Monitoring local weather forecasts and air quality reports is crucial for informed decision-making regarding outdoor activities throughout the year, with particular caution advised during the transitional seasons and cold winter months.