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Tomsk, situated in southwestern Siberia within Russia's Tomskaya Oblast', occupies a strategic position at the confluence of the Tom River and its smaller tributary, the Ushaika River, approximately 50 kilometres north of the vast Ob River. This historic city, founded in 1604, lies on the southeastern edge of the West Siberian Plain, characterised by flat to gently undulating terrain with an average elevation of around 110 metres above sea level. The urban core is enveloped by extensive taiga forests, primarily coniferous, which dominate the surrounding landscape, creating a distinct urban–rural gradient where the city's built environment abruptly transitions into dense wilderness. This geographical setting profoundly influences air quality through several mechanisms. The city's location in a river valley can facilitate temperature inversions, particularly in colder months, trapping pollutants from urban sources—such as vehicle emissions, residential heating (often reliant on coal and wood in older districts), and general industrial activities—close to the ground. Proximity to the Tom River does not significantly mitigate pollution, as the water body is relatively narrow and frozen for much of the year, limiting any cleansing effect. While Tomsk is not part of a major industrial belt like those in the Urals, it hosts educational and research institutions alongside light manufacturing, contributing to localized emissions. The surrounding agricultural zones are minimal, with forestry being more prevalent, though seasonal agricultural burning in nearby areas can occasionally affect air quality. The flat terrain and forest cover can sometimes hinder pollutant dispersion, especially under calm wind conditions common in the region.

In Tomsk, air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern shaped by Siberia's harsh continental climate, with pollution levels fluctuating due to meteorological factors and human activities. Winter, spanning from November to March, typically sees the highest pollution concentrations. During these months, temperature inversions are frequent, trapping emissions from heating systems—often burning coal, wood, or natural gas—and vehicle exhausts near the surface. Calm winds and persistent fog exacerbate this, creating stagnant air conditions that sensitive groups, such as those with respiratory or cardiovascular issues, should avoid prolonged outdoor exposure, especially in the city centre. Spring, from April to June, brings gradual improvement as temperatures rise and inversions weaken, though melting snow can uncover accumulated pollutants, and occasional agricultural or forest fires in the region may cause short-term spikes. Summer, from July to August, offers the best air quality for outdoor activities, with warmer temperatures promoting vertical mixing and stronger winds dispersing pollutants, making it an ideal time for hiking in the surrounding taiga. However, wildfires from distant areas can sometimes drift smoke into Tomsk, requiring monitoring by vulnerable populations. Autumn, from September to October, sees a return to deteriorating conditions as heating season resumes and temperature inversions become more common, with fog and low wind speeds again trapping emissions. Throughout the year, sensitive individuals should limit outdoor exertion during peak pollution periods, typically in late autumn and winter, and stay informed about local air quality reports.