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Bandar-e Lengeh, nestled on the northern coast of the Persian Gulf in Hormozgān Province, Iran, is a port city profoundly shaped by its maritime location and arid landscape. Situated at coordinates 26.5594, 54.8850, the city’s elevation is relatively low, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. The surrounding terrain is characterised by rocky outcrops, sandy plains, and the Makran mountain range to the north, creating a complex topography that influences local wind patterns. The city’s proximity to the Persian Gulf is a defining feature, impacting humidity levels and contributing to salt spray, which can exacerbate respiratory issues. While Bandar-e Lengeh isn’t heavily industrialised compared to other Iranian cities, its role as a trading port generates localised emissions from shipping, port operations, and associated transport. Agriculture in the surrounding areas, though limited by water scarcity, contributes to dust and particulate matter, particularly during drier periods. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with the city centre concentrated along the coastline and transitioning quickly to sparsely populated desert landscapes. This coastal positioning makes Bandar-e Lengeh particularly vulnerable to the import of pollutants from regional sources via prevailing winds and maritime traffic, impacting overall air quality.

Bandar-e Lengeh experiences a harsh desert climate with significant seasonal variations in air quality. Summer (June-August) brings intense heat and Shamal winds, carrying substantial amounts of dust and sand from inland deserts, leading to elevated particulate matter concentrations. These dust storms significantly degrade air quality, posing risks to respiratory health. Autumn (September-November) offers a brief respite with cooler temperatures and calmer winds, generally improving air quality. However, the onset of the northeast monsoon can bring increased humidity and occasional fog, trapping pollutants near the ground. Winter (December-February) is relatively mild, with occasional rainfall that helps to cleanse the atmosphere, resulting in the best air quality of the year. Spring (March-May) sees a gradual increase in temperatures and wind activity, leading to a slow deterioration in air quality as dust and sand become more prevalent. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should avoid prolonged outdoor activity during the summer months and periods of intense dust storms. Monitoring wind direction and staying indoors during peak pollution events is crucial. The months of January and February generally offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activities.