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Ahvāz, the capital of Iran's Khuzestan Province, occupies a strategic position in southwestern Iran along the banks of the Karun River, the country's only navigable waterway. Situated in the vast Khuzestan Plain at a low elevation of approximately 20 meters above sea level, the city lies within a predominantly flat, arid landscape bordered by the Zagros Mountains to the northeast and the Persian Gulf to the south. This geography profoundly influences air quality through multiple mechanisms. The surrounding terrain creates a natural basin that traps pollutants, while the city's location in Iran's primary industrial and energy heartland—home to extensive oil and gas facilities, petrochemical plants, and steel mills—generates substantial emissions. Agricultural zones in the fertile plain contribute particulate matter through dust storms and burning practices. The urban-rural gradient shows dense urbanization along the river, with industrial zones often situated upwind or integrated into the metropolitan area, exacerbating exposure. Proximity to the Persian Gulf introduces humidity that can combine with pollutants to form haze, while the lack of significant elevation variation limits natural ventilation. The Karun River, though a vital resource, does little to mitigate pollution due to the city's layout and prevailing wind patterns that often carry industrial emissions across residential areas.

Ahvāz experiences distinct seasonal variations in air quality driven by its desert climate and local emissions. In spring (March to May), rising temperatures and frequent dust storms from the surrounding plains elevate particulate levels, making late spring particularly hazardous for outdoor activities; sensitive groups like asthmatics should limit exposure during windy days. Summer (June to August) brings intense heat, often exceeding 45°C, which increases ozone formation from vehicle and industrial emissions, compounded by temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground—early mornings and evenings are best avoided for strenuous exercise. Autumn (September to November) sees some improvement as temperatures drop and occasional rainfall settles dust, but lingering industrial emissions and reduced wind dispersal can maintain moderate pollution, especially in October. Winter (December to February) is marked by cooler temperatures and higher humidity, leading to persistent fog and haze that mix with pollutants, creating poor visibility and respiratory risks; temperature inversions are common, trapping emissions in the lower atmosphere. Throughout the year, wind patterns from the northwest can temporarily clear air, but calm periods dominate, exacerbating pollution buildup. Sensitive individuals should monitor local advisories, use air filtration indoors, and plan outdoor activities for midday in cooler seasons when dispersion is slightly better.