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Nowy Tomyśl, nestled within the Wielkopolskie Voivodeship of Poland, occupies a gently undulating landscape characteristic of the Greater Poland Plain. Situated at coordinates 52.3167°N, 16.1333°E, the city’s terrain is relatively flat, averaging around 90-100 meters above sea level. This low elevation contributes to potential air stagnation, particularly during stable atmospheric conditions. The Warta River flows nearby, influencing local humidity and occasionally contributing to fog formation, which can trap pollutants. Surrounding Nowy Tomyśl is a predominantly agricultural region, dominated by arable land and scattered forests. While not a major industrial hub itself, the city benefits from its strategic location along transport routes connecting Poznań, a significant industrial centre, with western Poland and Germany. This proximity means Nowy Tomyśl can experience pollutant transport from these sources. The urban-rural gradient is fairly sharp; the city centre gives way quickly to open farmland. This impacts dispersion patterns, as rural areas offer fewer obstacles to wind flow, but also less natural filtration. The prevailing winds, generally from the west, play a crucial role in pollutant advection. Understanding these geographical factors is vital for interpreting local air quality trends and implementing effective mitigation strategies.

Nowy Tomyśl experiences a temperate continental climate, resulting in distinct seasonal air quality patterns. Winter (December-February) often sees the poorest air quality, driven by increased residential heating using coal and wood, coupled with temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground. Calm, stable conditions exacerbate this, leading to higher concentrations of particulate matter. Spring (March-May) brings gradual improvement as temperatures rise and heating demand decreases, though agricultural activities like burning crop residue can temporarily worsen conditions. Summer (June-August) generally offers the cleanest air, aided by stronger winds and higher mixing heights, dispersing pollutants effectively. However, heatwaves can trigger ground-level ozone formation. Autumn (September-November) is a transitional period, with declining temperatures and renewed heating, leading to a gradual deterioration in air quality. Fog, common in autumn mornings, can trap pollutants, reducing visibility and increasing respiratory irritation. Sensitive individuals – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during winter and autumn mornings. Monitoring pollen levels is also important in spring and summer. Avoiding peak traffic hours and staying informed about local air quality reports are crucial for protecting health.