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Sehore occupies a distinctive position in central India's Malwa Plateau region, situated approximately 37 kilometres northwest of Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh. The city rests at an elevation of around 500 metres above sea level, giving it a slightly moderated climate compared to lower-lying areas, though this elevation does little to disperse pollutants effectively. Sehore's urban character blends administrative functions with agricultural processing, creating a hybrid urban-rural gradient where soybean processing facilities operate alongside traditional residential areas. The surrounding landscape consists primarily of fertile agricultural plains dedicated to soybean, wheat, and pulses cultivation, with scattered low hills to the west. No major rivers flow directly through the city, though the Sehore district contains several seasonal streams that dry up for much of the year, contributing to dust issues. Sehore's location places it within Madhya Pradesh's agricultural heartland rather than its industrial belt, yet this agricultural focus paradoxically generates significant pollution through crop residue burning and processing emissions. The city's position on National Highway 86 ensures steady vehicle traffic, while its distance from major water bodies means minimal natural cleansing through precipitation or humidity except during monsoon months. This geographic isolation from dispersive forces like coastal winds or mountain-valley breezes allows pollutants to accumulate, particularly during winter months when temperature inversions trap emissions close to the ground.

Sehore's air quality follows a pronounced seasonal rhythm dictated by agricultural cycles and meteorological conditions. During winter (November-February), pollution reaches its peak as agricultural burning coincides with stable atmospheric conditions. Temperature inversions form frequently in the Malwa Plateau's basin-like topography, trapping soybean processing emissions, vehicle exhaust, and domestic biomass smoke near ground level. Morning fog further compounds visibility issues and pollutant concentration. Sensitive groups should limit outdoor activity during these months, particularly in early mornings when inversions are strongest. Spring (March-May) brings gradual improvement as temperatures rise and winds increase, though extreme heat creates ozone formation conditions and dust storms exacerbate particulate matter levels. The pre-monsoon period offers moderate relief but requires hydration and indoor activity during heatwaves. Monsoon season (June-September) provides the cleanest air as heavy rains wash pollutants from the atmosphere and agricultural burning ceases completely. This period offers the best conditions for outdoor activities, though thunderstorms present lightning hazards. Post-monsoon (October) sees rapid deterioration as harvest-related burning resumes while monsoon winds diminish, creating a sharp transition to hazardous conditions. Residents with respiratory conditions should begin preventive measures by mid-October and continue through winter, monitoring local air quality advisories for specific high-pollution days.