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Buthidaung, situated in Rakhine State, Myanmar, occupies a geographically significant position along the eastern coast of the Bay of Bengal. Its coordinates (20.8667° N, 92.5333° E) place it within a low-lying deltaic plain, characteristic of the region's sedimentary geology. The city’s terrain is predominantly flat, gently sloping towards the coast, a feature heavily influenced by the Irrawaddy River’s delta formation. This flatness, while facilitating urban development, also contributes to potential air quality challenges, limiting vertical mixing and trapping pollutants close to ground level. Buthidaung is surrounded by a mosaic of agricultural lands – rice paddies and smaller farms – which, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to seasonal particulate matter from agricultural burning practices. To the east lies the Bay of Bengal, a significant factor in regional weather patterns and a potential source of sea salt aerosols, impacting local air composition. The urban–rural gradient transitions rapidly from the densely populated town center to the surrounding agricultural areas, with small villages and dispersed settlements. There's limited evidence of large-scale industrial belts immediately adjacent to Buthidaung, though smaller workshops and processing facilities related to agriculture and fishing are present. The proximity to the coast also means the city is susceptible to coastal winds and occasional storm surges, which can redistribute pollutants and influence local air quality dynamics. The relatively low elevation (generally below 10 meters) further restricts atmospheric dispersion.

Buthidaung’s air quality is inextricably linked to its tropical monsoon climate, exhibiting distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, typically spanning November to April, often sees a noticeable increase in particulate matter. This is largely attributable to agricultural burning practices as farmers clear fields for the next planting season; the flat terrain hinders the dispersal of smoke plumes. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler months of December and January, exacerbate this issue by trapping pollutants near the surface. The monsoon season, from May to October, brings increased rainfall and stronger winds, generally leading to improved air quality as pollutants are washed out of the atmosphere and dispersed. However, periods of heavy fog, particularly during the transition months (April/May and October/November), can temporarily reduce visibility and trap pollutants. The Bay of Bengal’s influence is also felt through occasional sea breezes, which can either dilute pollutants or, under certain conditions, transport marine aerosols inland. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of agricultural burning. Outdoor activities are generally more favourable during the monsoon months, although heavy rainfall can still pose challenges. The combination of agricultural practices, meteorological conditions, and the city’s geographic setting creates a dynamic air quality profile, requiring ongoing monitoring and mitigation strategies.