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Poldokhtar, nestled within the rugged Lorestān Province of Iran, occupies a geographically challenging position at coordinates 33.1489°N, 47.7164°E. The city is situated amidst the Zagros Mountains, a defining feature of western Iran, at an elevation of approximately 1450 meters (4757 feet). This mountainous terrain significantly influences local air quality, creating natural barriers to wind flow and fostering temperature inversions, particularly during colder months. The surrounding landscape is characterised by steep valleys and limited flat land, impacting urban sprawl and concentrating emissions. Poldokhtar’s proximity to the Kākāreh River, a tributary of the Dez River, provides a vital water source but doesn’t offer significant dispersion of pollutants. The region is largely rural, with agriculture – primarily rain-fed farming and livestock rearing – dominating the surrounding areas. While Poldokhtar isn’t a major industrial hub, smaller-scale industrial activity and the use of traditional heating methods contribute to localised pollution. The urban-rural gradient is steep; moving away from the city centre quickly leads to sparsely populated agricultural land. Dust storms originating from the western and southern deserts are a recurring issue, exacerbating particulate matter concentrations. The city’s location within a valley restricts atmospheric mixing, trapping pollutants and contributing to poorer air quality.

Poldokhtar experiences a distinct seasonal air quality pattern dictated by its mountainous climate. Spring (March-May) brings moderate temperatures and increased rainfall, offering temporary relief from pollution as precipitation washes away particulate matter. However, agricultural burning during this period can elevate levels of PM2.5. Summers (June-August) are hot and dry, with stable atmospheric conditions and infrequent rainfall leading to a build-up of pollutants. Dust storms are most frequent during these months, significantly impacting air quality. Autumn (September-November) sees a gradual cooling and a return of some rainfall, improving conditions, but temperature inversions begin to form as nights become colder. Winter (December-February) is the most challenging period. Cold temperatures encourage the use of fossil fuels for heating, increasing emissions of sulfur dioxide and particulate matter. Snowfall can temporarily cleanse the air, but persistent temperature inversions trap pollutants in the valley, leading to prolonged periods of poor air quality. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during winter months and periods of dust storms. Monitoring wind patterns is crucial; periods of calm winds exacerbate pollution, while winds from the west and south bring dust.