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Valavanūr, a coastal town in the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu, India, occupies a geographically significant position along the Bay of Bengal. Located at 11.9205°N latitude and 79.5785°E longitude, the town’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Coromandel Coast. Its elevation is minimal, making it highly susceptible to sea breezes and the impacts of coastal weather systems. The surrounding landscape is a mix of agricultural land, primarily paddy fields and coconut groves, interspersed with pockets of mangrove forests along the coastline. Valavanūr is situated within a region experiencing a strong urban-rural gradient, with larger industrial centres like Cuddalore to the north and smaller agricultural villages to the south and west. This proximity to industrial activity is a key factor influencing local air quality. The Bay of Bengal plays a dual role; it provides a natural flushing mechanism for pollutants via sea breezes, but also contributes to high humidity and potential for salt-laden aerosols. The town’s location makes it vulnerable to cyclones and storm surges, which can exacerbate pollution by disrupting infrastructure and releasing pollutants into the atmosphere. The relatively low-lying nature of the area also limits atmospheric dispersion, trapping pollutants closer to ground level.

Valavanūr experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, from January to May, sees a build-up of particulate matter due to reduced rainfall and increased dust from agricultural activities and construction. Hot, dry winds exacerbate these conditions, leading to poorer air quality. February and March are typically the least favourable months for outdoor activity, particularly for those with respiratory sensitivities. The southwest monsoon arrives in June, bringing significant rainfall that washes away pollutants, resulting in a temporary improvement in air quality. However, increased humidity can also foster mould growth, impacting indoor air quality. The northeast monsoon, from October to December, is the primary rain-bearing season, offering the most substantial cleansing effect. November and December generally present the best air quality. During the monsoon, strong winds aid dispersion, but localised flooding can release contaminants. Temperature inversions, common during the transition periods between seasons, trap pollutants near the ground. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exposure during the dry season and periods of stagnant air.