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Kursk, situated in the Kurskaya Oblast' of western Russia, occupies a strategic position in the Central Russian Upland, approximately 530 kilometers south of Moscow. The city lies at an average elevation of 250 meters above sea level, characterized by gently rolling terrain typical of the forest-steppe zone, which transitions between the dense forests to the north and the open steppes to the south. Kursk is positioned on the Tuskar River, a tributary of the Seym River, with no major bodies of water nearby to significantly influence local air circulation patterns. The region forms part of the fertile Black Earth Belt, renowned for its rich chernozem soils supporting extensive agriculture, particularly grain cultivation, which surrounds the urban area. This creates a distinct urban-rural gradient where the compact city center, with its Soviet-era industrial districts and residential blocks, gives way to vast farmlands. Kursk's location inland, away from coastal influences, means air quality is primarily affected by local emissions and regional weather patterns rather than maritime air masses. The city's position within the industrial heartland of European Russia exposes it to transboundary pollution from neighboring regions, while local sources include vehicle emissions, residential heating, and some manufacturing. The surrounding agricultural activities contribute seasonal particulate matter from soil dust and agricultural burning, though less intensively than in purely industrial zones. The terrain's modest elevation does little to disrupt pollution dispersion, making the city susceptible to accumulation under stagnant atmospheric conditions.

In Kursk, air quality follows a distinct seasonal rhythm shaped by the continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. During winter, from December to February, pollution peaks due to increased emissions from coal and wood burning for heating, combined with frequent temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground. Cold, calm days often see reduced air quality, making outdoor activities less advisable, especially for sensitive groups like children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions, who should limit prolonged exposure. Spring, from March to May, brings gradual improvement as temperatures rise and precipitation increases, helping to wash pollutants from the air, though occasional dust from agricultural preparations can cause short-term spikes. Summer, from June to August, offers the best air quality, with warmer temperatures promoting vertical mixing and winds dispersing emissions, making it the ideal season for outdoor pursuits; however, occasional heatwaves can lead to ozone formation, requiring caution during peak afternoon hours. Autumn, from September to November, sees a decline in air quality as heating resumes and atmospheric stability increases, with October and November often experiencing fog and stagnant conditions that exacerbate pollution. Sensitive individuals should monitor local air quality reports during transitional seasons and consider using air purifiers indoors during peak pollution months to mitigate health risks.