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Mālegaon is situated in the Nashik district of Maharashtra, India, positioned at coordinates 20.5500°N, 74.5500°E within the broader Deccan Plateau region. The city lies approximately 285 kilometres northeast of Mumbai, placing it in a transitional zone between the Western Ghats to the west and the semi-arid plains of central Maharashtra. Its elevation of around 450 metres above sea level moderates temperatures but creates a basin-like topography that can trap pollutants. Mālegaon is located near the Girna River, a tributary of the Tapti River system, which provides some local humidity but insufficient airflow to consistently disperse emissions. The urban area is surrounded by agricultural zones, primarily cultivating grapes, onions, and cotton, with occasional crop residue burning contributing to seasonal haze. As a mid-sized city with over 480,000 residents, Mālegaon exhibits a mixed urban-rural gradient, featuring both dense residential neighbourhoods and peri-urban industrial pockets engaged in textile manufacturing, food processing, and small-scale engineering. Its position along National Highway 3 and proximity to major industrial corridors, including those connecting Mumbai to northern India, subjects it to transit-related pollution from diesel trucks and vehicles. The surrounding landscape of low hills and flatlands, combined with limited green cover within the city, reduces natural air purification, while the absence of significant water bodies nearby minimises cleansing sea breezes, making air quality vulnerable to local emissions and regional agricultural practices.

Mālegaon's air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern influenced by its inland Deccan Plateau climate. During winter (November to February), cool temperatures and frequent temperature inversions trap pollutants near the ground, leading to elevated pollution levels, particularly in December and January when calm winds and morning fog exacerbate haze from vehicles, industrial emissions, and occasional agricultural burning. Sensitive groups, such as those with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activities during early mornings and evenings in these months. The pre-monsoon summer (March to May) sees rising temperatures that increase ozone formation from vehicular exhaust, though occasional dry winds provide some dispersal; April and May are peak months for heat-related pollution, favouring indoor exercise during midday. The monsoon season (June to September) brings substantial relief, with heavy rainfall from the southwest monsoon washing away particulates and improving air quality significantly—July and August are ideal for outdoor activities. Post-monsoon (October) marks a transition, with reducing rainfall and increasing pollution as agricultural residue burning in surrounding fields begins, creating smoky conditions. Throughout the year, vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly, should monitor local air quality reports and use masks during high-pollution episodes, especially in winter and post-monsoon periods when particulate matter concentrations rise.