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Do Gonbadān, nestled in the Kohgīlūyeh va Boyer-Ahmad province of Iran, occupies a geographically significant position within the southwestern Zagros Mountains foothills. Located at approximately 30.36° N, 50.78° E and an elevation of roughly 650 meters above sea level, the city’s terrain is characterized by undulating plains gradually rising towards the surrounding mountains. This topography plays a crucial role in its air quality dynamics. The city sits near the Dez River, providing a limited moderating influence on local temperatures, but its impact on air circulation is less pronounced. The surrounding landscape is a mix of semi-arid rangelands and agricultural zones, primarily focused on wheat and barley cultivation, which can contribute to particulate matter during planting and harvesting seasons. To the east, the Zagros Mountains act as a barrier, potentially trapping pollutants and influencing wind patterns. Do Gonbadān’s urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city transitions quickly into agricultural land and sparse settlements. While not directly adjacent to major industrial belts, it’s within a region experiencing increasing agricultural intensification and sporadic small-scale industrial activity, including brick kilns and food processing facilities. The prevailing winds, often originating from the northwest, can carry pollutants from upstream sources, while the mountainous terrain can create localized areas of stagnant air, particularly during periods of low wind speed. The city’s relatively isolated location, while offering some protection from large-scale industrial pollution, also means it is susceptible to regional dust storms originating from the deserts further west.

Do Gonbadān experiences a distinct four-season climate, significantly impacting its air quality profile. Spring (March-May) often sees elevated dust levels due to regional wind patterns carrying fine particles from the deserts to the west. This is compounded by agricultural activities like plowing and planting, releasing additional soil particles into the air. Summer (June-August) is typically drier and hotter, with increased temperatures leading to photochemical smog formation, although the relatively low population density limits the severity. Autumn (September-November) brings a gradual improvement in air quality as dust events decrease, but agricultural burning, a traditional practice for land clearing, can contribute to localized smoke pollution. Winter (December-February) presents the most challenging period. Cold, stable air masses frequently lead to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. Fog, common during these months, further exacerbates the problem by reducing air mixing and increasing humidity, which can react with pollutants to form secondary particles. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during winter mornings and days with persistent fog. Spring requires caution due to dust storms; monitoring local weather reports is crucial. While summer offers generally better air quality, intense heat can still trigger respiratory issues. Autumn’s agricultural burning necessitates awareness of localized smoke plumes. Overall, minimizing exposure during periods of stagnant air and high dust concentrations is paramount for maintaining respiratory health.