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El Viso del Alcor, nestled in the province of Andalusia, Spain, occupies a gently undulating terrain within the Guadalquivir River valley. Situated approximately 25km northeast of Seville, the town benefits from a strategic location within a significant agricultural heartland, primarily olive groves and citrus orchards. The landscape is characterised by rolling hills, interspersed with arable land, transitioning towards the more expansive plains closer to the Guadalquivir. At an elevation of around 40 meters above sea level, El Viso del Alcor experiences a Mediterranean climate, influenced by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. This location, while providing moderating influences, also means the town is susceptible to air mass transport from both the Atlantic and, occasionally, Saharan dust events. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; the town itself is a concentrated area of residential and commercial activity, surrounded by extensive agricultural lands. While not directly within a major industrial belt, the proximity to Seville and its associated industrial activity contributes to regional background pollution levels. The Guadalquivir River, though not immediately adjacent, influences local humidity and can contribute to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants during calm weather conditions. The prevailing winds generally flow from the northwest, impacting pollutant dispersion patterns.

Air quality in El Viso del Alcor follows a distinct seasonal pattern. Summer months (June-August) often see elevated ozone levels due to intense sunlight and high temperatures reacting with vehicle emissions and industrial precursors. Dry conditions and stable air masses exacerbate this, leading to stagnant air and reduced pollutant dispersal. Autumn (September-November) brings a temporary improvement as temperatures cool and rainfall increases, washing particulate matter from the atmosphere. However, agricultural burning of crop residue during this period can cause localised spikes in PM2.5 and PM10. Winter (December-February) is typically the period of poorest air quality. Temperature inversions are frequent, trapping pollutants near the ground, and wood burning for heating adds to particulate matter concentrations. Calm, windless days are particularly problematic. Spring (March-May) sees a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and rainfall increases, but Saharan dust events, carried by southerly winds, can significantly impact air quality, increasing particulate matter levels. Sensitive individuals – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during summer ozone peaks, winter inversions, and periods of Saharan dust. Monitoring local forecasts is crucial.