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La Puebla del Río, nestled in the province of Seville, Andalusia, Spain, occupies a strategically important position within the Guadalquivir River Valley. Its coordinates (37.2667, -6.0500) place it on relatively flat terrain, averaging around 18 meters above sea level, a characteristic of the broader Guadalquivir floodplain. The city’s geography is inextricably linked to the river, historically serving as a vital transportation route and agricultural resource. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive olive groves, citrus orchards, and wheat fields dominating the rural areas extending outwards. This agricultural intensity contributes to localized particulate matter, particularly during harvest seasons. To the west, the landscape gradually transitions to the Almonte marshlands, a significant wetland ecosystem. The urban–rural gradient is relatively gentle, with smaller agricultural holdings interspersed within the municipality. La Puebla del Río’s proximity to Seville, a major urban center approximately 12 kilometers to the northeast, means it experiences some degree of urban influence, including transportation-related emissions. While not directly situated within a major industrial belt, the wider Seville metropolitan area does contain industrial zones, and prevailing winds can occasionally carry pollutants towards La Puebla. The Guadalquivir River itself, while a source of life, can also contribute to localized air quality issues through the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the riverbed and surrounding vegetation, especially during periods of high water levels and warm temperatures. The flat topography limits natural air dispersion, potentially exacerbating pollution episodes.

La Puebla del Río’s air quality exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by Andalusia’s Mediterranean climate. Summers (July-August) are typically hot and dry, characterized by prolonged periods of sunshine and minimal rainfall. This leads to stagnant air conditions, particularly during heatwaves, which can trap pollutants close to the ground. Temperature inversions, common during these months, further impede vertical mixing, resulting in elevated concentrations of particulate matter and ozone. Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) generally offer the most favourable air quality, with moderate temperatures and more frequent rainfall, which naturally cleanses the atmosphere. However, agricultural activities, such as ploughing and harvesting, can contribute to dust and particulate pollution during these periods. Winters (November-February) are comparatively mild but can be affected by occasional episodes of fog, particularly in the mornings. Fog traps pollutants near the surface, reducing visibility and temporarily worsening air quality. The Guadalquivir River’s influence is also felt; warmer river temperatures in summer can increase VOC emissions. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit prolonged outdoor exertion during the hot, dry summer months and be mindful of potential fog-related issues in winter. Spring and autumn provide the best windows for outdoor activities, but awareness of agricultural practices is advised. The prevailing winds, generally from the west, play a crucial role in dispersing pollutants, but their effectiveness is reduced during periods of atmospheric stability.