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Shakhty, located in the Rostov Oblast of Russia (47.7000° N, 40.2333° E), occupies a strategically important position within the Donets Basin, a region historically significant for its coal mining and heavy industry. The city’s geography is characterized by undulating terrain, part of the Azov Upland, with elevations ranging from approximately 150 to 280 meters above sea level. This gently rolling landscape, while visually appealing, contributes to localized air quality challenges. Shakhty sits on the edge of a steppe environment, transitioning from the forested areas further north to the drier, more expansive plains towards the Azov Sea, roughly 150 kilometers to the south. This proximity to the Azov Sea influences regional weather patterns, occasionally bringing maritime air masses. The surrounding landscape is a mix of agricultural fields – primarily wheat and sunflowers – and remnants of extensive coal mining operations, including slag heaps and abandoned mine workings. These former industrial sites can be sources of fugitive dust and pollutants. The urban–rural gradient around Shakhty is relatively sharp; the city is surrounded by agricultural land and smaller settlements, with larger urban centers like Rostov-on-Don situated further afield. The city’s industrial heritage, centered around coal extraction and metallurgical processing, has left a lasting impact on the local environment. The prevailing winds, generally from the west and southwest, can transport pollutants across the surrounding steppe, impacting air quality both within Shakhty and in neighboring communities. The topography, combined with industrial activity and agricultural practices, creates a complex interplay of factors influencing the city’s air quality profile.

Shakhty’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by meteorological conditions. Winters, lasting from November to March, are typically the most challenging period. Cold temperatures frequently lead to temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, preventing pollutants from dispersing. This phenomenon, coupled with reduced sunlight hours and limited wind speeds, results in a build-up of particulate matter and other emissions from residential heating (often coal-based) and industrial sources. Fog, common during these months, further exacerbates the problem by trapping pollutants close to the ground. Spring (April-May) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise, and wind speeds increase, aiding in pollutant dispersion. However, agricultural activities, including the use of fertilizers and machinery, can contribute to localized emissions. Summer (June-August) generally offers the best air quality, with consistent winds and higher temperatures promoting efficient pollutant removal. However, occasional heatwaves can lead to stagnant air conditions. Autumn (September-October) sees a return to more variable conditions, with periods of clear skies interspersed with episodes of elevated pollution as temperatures cool and industrial activity ramps up in preparation for winter. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during winter months, limiting outdoor exposure and avoiding strenuous activity on days with poor visibility. During the agricultural season, those with allergies or sensitivities to agricultural chemicals should monitor local conditions and take appropriate precautions. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can also be beneficial throughout the year.