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Tarnowskie Góry, nestled within the Śląskie Voivodeship of southern Poland, occupies a geographically complex and historically significant position. Located approximately 25 kilometers west of Katowice, it sits on the edge of the Upper Silesian Industrial Region, a legacy of extensive coal mining and heavy industry. The city’s terrain is characterized by rolling hills and valleys, a consequence of the region’s geological history involving salt mining and the formation of numerous ‘kopce’ – artificial mounds created from salt tailings. These kopce, a unique feature of the landscape, contribute to microclimatic variations within the city. Tarnowskie Góry lies at an elevation ranging from 220 to 312 meters above sea level, influencing local wind patterns and temperature distribution. The surrounding landscape is a blend of urban development, agricultural fields, and patches of woodland, creating a gradual urban–rural gradient. While not directly adjacent to major rivers, the area is interwoven with smaller streams and drainage channels, impacting local humidity and potential for fog formation. The proximity to the industrial belt, particularly the historical coalfields and associated processing plants, has historically exerted a strong influence on air quality, with pollutants often transported by prevailing winds. The city’s location within a basin-like topography can exacerbate air stagnation, especially during periods of calm weather, trapping pollutants close to the ground. The legacy of mining also means that ground stability and potential for subsidence can influence urban planning and indirectly affect air quality management.

Tarnowskie Góry’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by meteorological conditions. Winter months (November to February) typically see the poorest air quality, driven by a combination of factors. Cold temperatures lead to increased heating demand, primarily reliant on coal and solid fuels in many households, releasing particulate matter and other pollutants. Frequent temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, exacerbate this issue by preventing vertical dispersion of pollutants. Fog, common during these months, further concentrates pollutants, reducing visibility and increasing respiratory irritation. Spring (March to May) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise, and wind speeds increase, aiding in pollutant dispersal. However, agricultural activities, such as fertilizer application, can contribute to ammonia emissions. Summer (June to August) generally offers the best air quality, with higher temperatures promoting atmospheric mixing and frequent rainfall washing pollutants from the air. However, occasional heatwaves can lead to stagnant air conditions. Autumn (September to October) sees a return to poorer air quality as temperatures cool, and heating demand increases, mirroring the winter pattern. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during winter and early spring, limiting outdoor activity on days with poor visibility or noticeable odors. During the warmer months, while generally better, monitoring local conditions and avoiding strenuous activity during peak heat is advisable. The city’s location within a basin can lead to localized pockets of poor air quality regardless of the season, emphasizing the need for localized monitoring and targeted interventions.