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Khimki occupies a distinctive position within the Moscow metropolitan region, situated just northwest of Moscow's city limits along the Moscow Canal and the Khimki Reservoir, which significantly influences its local climate and air quality dynamics. The city lies on the flat East European Plain at an elevation of approximately 160 meters above sea level, characterized by gentle terrain with minor undulations typical of the Moskva River basin. Its geography places it within Moscow's dense urban-industrial belt, functioning as both a residential suburb and an industrial-transport hub, creating a sharp urban-rural gradient where built-up areas transition abruptly to forested zones and agricultural lands to the north and west. Proximity to major transportation corridors—including the Moscow-St. Petersburg highway and Sheremetyevo International Airport—introduces persistent vehicular and aviation emissions, while industrial zones along the canal contribute to localized pollution. The Khimki Reservoir and surrounding wetlands moderate temperature extremes but can also trap pollutants under stable atmospheric conditions. This location within the Moscow agglomeration means Khimki's air quality is heavily influenced by regional pollution transport from the capital, particularly when prevailing winds blow from the southeast, carrying industrial and vehicular emissions across the urban landscape. The city's position in a river valley basin further exacerbates pollution accumulation during temperature inversions, common in this continental climate region.

Khimki experiences distinct seasonal air quality patterns shaped by its continental climate and urban geography. Winter months, particularly December through February, typically see the worst pollution episodes due to temperature inversions that trap emissions from heating systems, vehicles, and industry close to the ground, compounded by low wind speeds and frequent fog. Sensitive groups like asthmatics and elderly residents should limit prolonged outdoor exposure during these cold, stagnant periods. Spring brings gradual improvement as increasing temperatures and more frequent winds disperse pollutants, though March and April can still experience poor air quality from lingering inversion events and road dust from melting snow. Summer offers the cleanest air overall, with June through August benefiting from stronger ventilation, precipitation that washes pollutants from the atmosphere, and reduced heating emissions, making this the optimal season for outdoor activities. However, occasional heatwaves in July can elevate ground-level ozone formation. Autumn sees a deterioration beginning in September as temperatures drop, heating systems activate, and atmospheric stability increases, with October and November often marked by accumulating particulate matter from vehicle exhaust and industrial operations. Throughout the year, wind direction plays a crucial role—northwesterly winds from forested areas bring cleaner air, while southeasterly winds transport additional pollution from Moscow's urban core.