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Krosno is strategically positioned within the Podkarpackie Voivodeship of southeastern Poland, nestled in the picturesque undulating terrain of the Dynów Foothills. This urban center serves as a vital hub for the surrounding region, characterized by a landscape where the urban fabric blends seamlessly into a mosaic of agricultural plots and dense deciduous forests. The city is bisected by the Wisłok river, which has historically shaped its development and continues to influence its local microclimate. Geographically, Krosno occupies a valley-like depression, an arrangement that significantly dictates its atmospheric behavior. The surrounding highlands act as natural barriers, restricting the horizontal movement of air masses and creating a propensity for stagnant air conditions. This topographical confinement is a critical factor in the city's air quality profile, as pollutants are often trapped within the lower atmospheric layers rather than being dispersed by regional winds. The urban-rural gradient is sharp, with the industrial legacy of glassmaking concentrated in specific zones, while the periphery remains dominated by greenery. However, the presence of numerous small-scale residential heating systems throughout the town creates a diffuse source of emissions. As a result, the interaction between the rugged Carpathian foothills and the settled valley floor creates a complex environment where air quality is highly sensitive to changes in wind speed and temperature. The proximity to the Bieszczady Mountains further influences the broader climatic patterns, bringing moisture and varying pressure systems to the region.

The air quality narrative in Krosno is dictated by the stark contrast between the temperate continental seasons. Winter represents the most challenging period, characterized by the phenomenon of temperature inversions. During these cold months, a layer of warm air traps colder, pollutant-heavy air near the ground, exacerbating the impact of domestic coal and wood combustion. This leads to significant peaks in particulate matter, making January and February the most hazardous months for those with respiratory vulnerabilities. As spring arrives, the air typically clears as heating demands drop and increasing wind speeds flush the valley. However, this period introduces biological allergens, where pollen from the surrounding forests mixes with residual urban pollutants. Summer offers the cleanest air of the year, with high atmospheric mixing and a total cessation of residential heating. Despite this, intense sunlight can occasionally trigger the formation of ground-level ozone, particularly during heatwaves. Autumn marks a transitional decline; as temperatures dip in October and November, the return of domestic heating coincides with frequent valley fogs. These fogs can trap emissions in a damp, heavy haze, reducing visibility and air quality. For sensitive groups, such as children and the elderly, outdoor activities are best scheduled for the late spring and summer. During the winter peak, utilizing air filtration systems and monitoring local alerts is essential to mitigate health risks associated with the seasonal smog that frequently blankets the Podkarpackie region.