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Tiruvādi, nestled in the Tiruvallur district of Tamil Nadu, India, occupies a geographically significant position within the Coromandel Coast region. Located at approximately 10.88°N latitude and 79.10°E longitude, the town’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the fertile plains of the Kaveri delta. Its elevation is relatively low, hovering around 15 meters above sea level, contributing to a humid subtropical climate. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – primarily rice paddies and pulses – interspersed with small villages and pockets of scrubland. This proximity to intensive agricultural zones introduces a localized source of pollutants, particularly during harvest seasons when biomass burning is common. Tiruvādi’s location is approximately 60 kilometers northwest of Chennai, placing it within the sphere of influence of the Chennai Metropolitan Area, and potentially susceptible to pollutants transported from that industrial and urban hub. The Bay of Bengal lies to the east, influencing local weather patterns and providing a potential pathway for marine-derived aerosols. The urban–rural gradient around Tiruvādi is gradual, with small settlements blending seamlessly into the agricultural landscape. While not directly adjacent to major industrial belts, the town’s connectivity to Chennai and surrounding areas means it is not entirely isolated from industrial emissions. The flat topography and limited natural barriers can exacerbate the accumulation of pollutants, particularly during periods of stagnant air, impacting local air quality.

Tiruvādi’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s tropical climate and monsoon cycles. The southwest monsoon (June to September) generally brings relief, dispersing pollutants with increased rainfall and wind speeds. However, the onset of the monsoon can initially be accompanied by elevated particulate matter due to dust storms and agricultural burning. The post-monsoon season (October to November) often sees a gradual improvement in air quality as rainfall decreases and winds pick up. The dry season (December to March) presents the most significant air quality challenges. Reduced rainfall, lower humidity, and calmer winds create conditions conducive to pollutant accumulation. Temperature inversions, common during this period, trap pollutants near the ground, worsening local air quality. Fog, frequently occurring in December and January, further restricts dispersion. Agricultural burning, particularly after the harvest of the *kuruvai* rice crop, contributes significantly to particulate matter pollution during this time. The pre-monsoon season (March to May) is characterized by rising temperatures and increasing dust levels, often leading to a deterioration in air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activities during peak pollution periods, typically in the early morning and late evening. Staying indoors with filtered air and using air purifiers can provide additional protection. Hydration and avoiding strenuous outdoor exertion are also recommended.