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Bojnūrd, the capital of North Khorasan Province in northeastern Iran, occupies a unique geographic position within the Bojnūrd Plain. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1,025 meters (3,363 feet), the city is nestled between the Kopet Dag mountains to the north and the fringes of the central Iranian plateau to the south. This location significantly influences its air quality. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive wheat, barley, and fruit orchards dominating the plain. The Kashaf River flows nearby, providing irrigation but also contributing to localized humidity and potential for temperature inversions. While not heavily industrialized, Bojnūrd serves as a regional trade and processing center for agricultural products, leading to some localized emissions from transport and processing facilities. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural lands immediately bordering the city limits. Dust storms originating from the deserts further east and south are a recurring issue, impacting air quality, particularly during drier months. The terrain, a relatively flat plain constrained by mountains, limits natural air dispersion, exacerbating pollution episodes. The city’s growth, like many Iranian urban centers, is increasing demand for energy and transportation, adding to the pollution burden.

Bojnūrd experiences a continental climate with significant seasonal variations in air quality. Spring (March-May) brings moderate temperatures and increased agricultural activity, leading to a rise in particulate matter from field preparation and fertilizer use. Summer (June-August) is typically hot and dry, with dust storms becoming more frequent, significantly degrading air quality. These dust events, originating from the eastern deserts, are often accompanied by reduced visibility and respiratory irritation. Autumn (September-November) offers a brief respite with cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall, improving air quality temporarily. However, temperature inversions become more common during this period, trapping pollutants near the ground. Winter (December-February) is cold and often foggy, with increased reliance on fossil fuels for heating. This leads to elevated levels of sulfur dioxide and particulate matter, particularly in residential areas. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during dust storms (summer) and periods of temperature inversion (autumn/winter). Months of April-May and September-October generally offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activities, though monitoring conditions remains crucial. The prevailing winds, generally from the west, can transport pollutants from regional sources.