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Boksburg occupies a distinctive position within South Africa's Gauteng province, situated on the eastern edge of the Witwatersrand Basin at an elevation of approximately 1,600 meters above sea level. This elevated plateau location places the city within the broader Highveld region, characterized by relatively flat to gently undulating terrain that extends across much of Gauteng's urban corridor. Boksburg forms part of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality, which represents one of Africa's most significant industrial and manufacturing hubs, creating an urban-rural gradient that transitions from dense commercial and residential zones in the west to more open landscapes toward the east. The city's proximity to Johannesburg's eastern suburbs and its position along major transportation corridors, including the N12 and N17 highways, facilitates substantial vehicular traffic and industrial logistics that directly impact local air quality. While no major rivers or significant water bodies dominate the immediate landscape, the Klip River catchment area influences drainage patterns across the region. Boksburg's location within South Africa's industrial heartland means it experiences air quality challenges typical of urban-industrial centers, with emissions from manufacturing facilities, power generation, transportation networks, and residential fuel use contributing to particulate matter and gaseous pollutants. The city's elevation contributes to cooler temperatures that can trap pollutants near ground level during winter months, while the relatively flat topography allows for moderate wind dispersion when atmospheric conditions permit.

Boksburg's air quality follows distinct seasonal patterns shaped by the Highveld's subtropical highland climate, with pollution concentrations fluctuating according to meteorological conditions throughout the year. During the dry winter months from May to August, cold temperatures and frequent temperature inversions create stable atmospheric conditions that trap pollutants close to the ground, leading to the year's worst air quality episodes. These inversion layers prevent vertical mixing and dispersion, allowing particulate matter from industrial operations, residential heating, and vehicular emissions to accumulate over the urban landscape. Sensitive groups including children, elderly residents, and those with respiratory conditions should limit prolonged outdoor exposure during these months, particularly in the early mornings when inversion conditions are strongest. Spring (September to November) brings gradually improving conditions as temperatures rise and increased wind activity helps disperse pollutants, though occasional dust storms from the drier interior regions can temporarily elevate particulate levels. The summer rainy season from December to February offers the cleanest air of the year, as frequent afternoon thunderstorms and convective activity effectively wash pollutants from the atmosphere while consistent breezes provide natural ventilation. Autumn (March to April) represents a transitional period with generally moderate air quality as rainfall decreases but before winter inversion patterns become established. Outdoor activities are most favorable during the summer months when dispersion conditions are optimal, while winter requires careful planning around midday when inversion layers may temporarily weaken.