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Hebron, situated in the southern West Bank at an elevation of approximately 930 meters above sea level, occupies a strategic position in the rugged Judean Hills. This ancient city, one of Palestine's largest urban centers, lies about 30 kilometers south of Jerusalem, creating an urban-rural gradient that transitions into agricultural terraces and pastoral lands to the east and west. The terrain is characterized by limestone hills and valleys, with the city itself built across several ridges that influence local wind patterns and pollution dispersion. Hebron's Mediterranean climate places it within a transitional zone between coastal influences and desert conditions, though its inland position and elevation moderate maritime effects. The surrounding landscape features extensive stone quarries and masonry operations that contribute significantly to particulate matter, while the urban core experiences concentrated vehicle emissions along congested thoroughfares. Proximity to agricultural zones introduces occasional biomass burning, and the city's industrial belt, including glass and ceramics factories, adds to the pollutant mix. The topography creates natural basins where pollutants can accumulate, particularly during temperature inversions, while the absence of major water bodies means there's no natural cleansing through sea breezes. This combination of elevation, terrain, and industrial activity creates unique air quality challenges distinct from coastal Palestinian cities.

Hebron's air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern shaped by its Mediterranean climate and urban characteristics. During winter (November-February), pollution peaks dramatically as temperature inversions trap vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and residential heating pollutants in the cold, stagnant air. These months experience the highest particulate concentrations from stone quarry dust, road dust resuspension, and increased waste burning, making outdoor activity particularly challenging for sensitive groups like children, elderly residents, and those with respiratory conditions. Spring (March-May) brings gradual improvement as rising temperatures break inversion layers and occasional rainfall washes away accumulated pollutants, though sporadic heatwaves can temporarily elevate ozone levels. Summer (June-August) offers the cleanest air despite intense heat, as thermal convection and stronger winds disperse pollutants, though glass factory emissions may still affect downwind neighborhoods. Autumn (September-October) sees deteriorating conditions as temperatures drop and atmospheric stability increases, with early heating emissions compounding vehicle pollution. Sensitive individuals should minimize outdoor exposure during winter mornings when inversions are strongest, favor spring and summer for physical activity, and monitor local dust advisories year-round given the persistent quarry and road dust sources. The absence of monsoon systems means pollution patterns depend primarily on temperature gradients and wind patterns rather than seasonal rainfall extremes.