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Dos Hermanas, nestled in the province of Seville, Andalusia, Spain, occupies a strategically important location within the Guadalquivir River Valley. Its coordinates (37.2836, -5.9222) place it approximately 11 kilometers northwest of Seville, a significant urban hub. The city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Guadalquivir’s floodplain, with gentle undulations marking the transition to the surrounding agricultural lands. This flatness, while beneficial for urban development, can exacerbate air quality issues as it limits natural dispersion of pollutants. The Guadalquivir River itself, though not directly bordering Dos Hermanas, exerts a moderating influence on the local climate, contributing to humidity and occasional fog, which can trap pollutants. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of intensively farmed fields – primarily olive groves, vineyards, and cereal crops – and scattered industrial estates, reflecting Andalusia’s agricultural and industrial heritage. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city transitions quickly into agricultural zones, though light industrial activity is interspersed throughout the periphery. The proximity to Seville, a major industrial and transportation center, means Dos Hermanas is susceptible to transboundary pollution, receiving pollutants carried by prevailing winds. The region’s geology, dominated by sedimentary rocks, doesn't significantly contribute to air pollution, but the prevalence of dust from agricultural practices can be a factor, particularly during dry periods. The relatively low elevation (around 25 meters above sea level) minimizes the potential for altitude-driven air quality variations.

Dos Hermanas experiences a Mediterranean climate, dictating a distinct seasonal pattern in air quality. Summers (July-August) are typically hot and dry, with minimal rainfall and frequent periods of atmospheric stability. This often leads to temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, preventing the vertical mixing of pollutants. Agricultural burning, though regulated, can still occur during this period, contributing to particulate matter. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) generally offer the most favourable air quality, with moderate temperatures, increased rainfall, and more frequent wind events that help disperse pollutants. However, autumn can see a resurgence of agricultural burning as farmers prepare fields for the winter. Winters (December-February) are characterized by cooler temperatures and increased humidity, sometimes accompanied by fog, particularly in the mornings. This fog, while reducing visibility, can also trap pollutants, leading to localized episodes of poor air quality. The prevailing winds from the west and northwest typically help to clear pollutants, but their strength and consistency vary considerably. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should be particularly cautious during the hot, still summer months and on foggy winter mornings. Outdoor activities are generally best enjoyed during the spring and autumn, avoiding peak traffic hours and areas with high industrial activity. The intensity of agricultural activity, and associated dust and emissions, fluctuates throughout the year, impacting local air quality.