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Benicarló, nestled on the Costa de Azahar in Valencia, Spain, occupies a strategic coastal position between the Mediterranean Sea and the Serra d'Ordal mountains. Its coordinates (40.4167, 0.4167) place it within a gently sloping terrain, transitioning from sandy beaches to undulating hills. The city’s urban fabric is a blend of historic, narrow streets in the older quarter and more modern developments closer to the coastline, reflecting its evolution from a traditional fishing and agricultural hub to a popular tourist destination. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive orange groves and vineyards characterizing the inland areas, contributing to the region’s renowned citrus and wine production. To the north, the Serra d'Ordal provides a natural barrier, influencing local wind patterns and potentially trapping pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. The proximity to the Mediterranean Sea introduces a maritime influence, moderating temperatures and occasionally bringing in sea breezes that can disperse pollutants. The urban-rural gradient is relatively smooth, with smaller villages and agricultural land seamlessly blending into the outskirts of Benicarló. While not directly adjacent to major industrial belts, the city benefits from its connection to the wider Valencian region, which includes industrial zones further inland. This connectivity, however, can occasionally result in the advection of pollutants from those areas. The elevation, averaging around 150 meters above sea level, further influences local air circulation and the potential for temperature inversions, particularly during the cooler months.

Benicarló’s air quality exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern largely dictated by meteorological conditions. Summers, characterized by high temperatures and prolonged sunshine, often see stagnant air conditions, particularly during July and August. The intense heat can exacerbate ground-level ozone formation, a secondary pollutant resulting from reactions involving sunlight and vehicle emissions. Sea breezes, while generally beneficial for dispersion, can be intermittent during these months. Autumn (September-November) typically brings a slight improvement as temperatures cool and wind patterns become more variable, though occasional periods of calm can still lead to localized pollution build-up. Winter (December-February) presents the greatest challenge. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, are more frequent, hindering pollutant dispersal and leading to potential episodes of elevated particulate matter, likely originating from agricultural burning practices in the surrounding rural areas and domestic heating. Spring (March-May) generally offers the best air quality, with increasing wind speeds and more frequent rainfall helping to cleanse the atmosphere. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the summer months due to ozone and during winter periods when inversions are prevalent. Outdoor activities are generally best enjoyed during spring and early autumn, avoiding periods of prolonged calm or high heat. Agricultural practices, particularly controlled burning, should be monitored and minimized to reduce particulate matter impacts.