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Dezfūl is strategically positioned in southwestern Iran's Khuzestan Province, approximately 150 kilometers northeast of the Persian Gulf, nestled along the banks of the Dez River from which it derives its name. The city sits at a modest elevation of around 143 meters above sea level within the vast alluvial plain of Khuzestan, characterized by flat to gently rolling terrain that extends toward the Zagros Mountains to the north and east. This low-lying basin location significantly impacts air quality by fostering temperature inversions, particularly during cooler months, which trap pollutants close to the ground. Dezfūl lies within Iran's primary agricultural and industrial belt, surrounded by extensive sugarcane plantations, oil fields, and refineries, including the nearby massive Dez Dam and associated hydroelectric facilities. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced, with the city center exhibiting dense residential and commercial development that gradually transitions to agricultural lands and industrial zones on its periphery. Proximity to the Dez River provides some natural ventilation but is insufficient to fully disperse emissions from urban traffic, residential heating, and regional industrial activities. The surrounding arid landscape, with sparse vegetation and frequent dust storms originating from the Mesopotamian deserts to the west, exacerbates particulate matter levels, creating a complex pollution profile influenced by both local anthropogenic sources and natural regional dust.

Dezfūl's air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern shaped by its hot desert climate, with pollution peaks typically occurring in late autumn and winter. During winter (December to February), cold nights and calm conditions frequently lead to temperature inversions that trap pollutants from heating systems, vehicular emissions, and industrial operations, resulting in the year's worst air quality; sensitive groups like children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions should limit outdoor activities during these months, especially in the early mornings. Spring (March to May) brings gradual improvement as rising temperatures break up inversions and occasional rainfall helps cleanse the air, though dust storms from western deserts can cause sporadic spikes in particulate matter. Summer (June to August) sees high temperatures often exceeding 40°C that increase ozone formation from precursor pollutants, but stronger daytime winds and thermal convection provide better dispersion, making early mornings the best time for outdoor exercise. Autumn (September to November) marks a transition as cooling temperatures and reduced wind speeds begin to rebuild inversion layers, leading to deteriorating air quality toward year's end; residents are advised to monitor local air quality reports and use air purifiers indoors during peak pollution periods.