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Dombóvár, nestled in the Tolna county of Hungary, occupies a geographically significant position within the Southern Great Plain region. Its coordinates (46.3769, 18.1310) place it on relatively flat terrain, characteristic of the Pannonian Basin, with an average elevation of around 130 meters above sea level. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, a patchwork of arable fields and pastures, contributing to the city's rural-urban gradient. To the south, the landscape gradually transitions into the undulating hills of the Tolna Uplands, influencing local wind patterns. While Dombóvár lacks immediate proximity to major rivers, it benefits from groundwater resources, impacting local humidity and potentially affecting pollutant dispersion. The city’s location is approximately 120 km south of Budapest, placing it outside the immediate influence of the capital's industrial belt, yet still connected via road and rail networks. This connectivity, however, can introduce transboundary pollution. The urban character of Dombóvár is defined by its compact layout, a legacy of its historical development as a railway hub. The surrounding agricultural lands, while vital to the regional economy, can contribute to air pollution through seasonal agricultural practices like fertilizer application and burning of crop residues, particularly during autumn. The relatively flat topography and limited natural barriers can exacerbate the accumulation of pollutants, especially during periods of stagnant air, making local air quality highly susceptible to regional weather patterns and agricultural activities.

Dombóvár’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by meteorological conditions. Spring (March-May) often brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and winds increase, dispersing accumulated winter pollutants. However, agricultural activities, including the spreading of fertilizers and occasional field burning, can introduce localized spikes in particulate matter. Summer (June-August) typically sees relatively good air quality due to consistent winds and higher temperatures, although heatwaves can lead to ozone formation, particularly during stagnant afternoons. Autumn (September-November) presents the most challenging period. Cooler temperatures combined with decreasing wind speeds frequently lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. Agricultural practices, including harvest and residue management, significantly contribute to particulate matter and ammonia levels. Fog, common during autumn mornings, further exacerbates the problem by reducing dispersion. Winter (December-February) is characterized by cold, stable air and frequent fog, leading to prolonged periods of poor air quality. Residential heating, primarily using wood or coal in some households, adds to the pollution burden. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during autumn and winter mornings, especially when fog is present. During summer heatwaves, minimizing strenuous outdoor activity during peak ozone hours is advisable. Spring requires awareness of agricultural emissions and their potential impact on respiratory health.