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Ban Mai, nestled within the Nakhon Ratchasima province of Thailand, occupies a geographically significant position within the Khorat Plateau. Located at approximately 14.9658° N, 102.0205° E, the city’s elevation averages around 150-200 meters above sea level, contributing to a generally stable atmospheric layer, though susceptible to temperature inversions under specific conditions. The surrounding landscape is characterized by a mix of gently rolling hills, agricultural land, and scattered deciduous forests, typical of the plateau environment. Ban Mai’s proximity to the Chi River, a vital waterway for the region, influences local humidity and can impact the dispersion of pollutants, particularly during periods of low wind. The urban-rural gradient transitions relatively quickly; the city itself is a small, localized settlement, quickly giving way to agricultural fields primarily used for rice and corn cultivation. Further afield, the industrial belt of Nakhon Ratchasima city, a larger urban center, exerts an indirect influence, with potential for transported pollutants. The plateau’s geology, composed largely of sandstone and shale, can also affect particulate matter suspension and deposition. The regional climate, a tropical savanna, dictates seasonal patterns of rainfall and dryness, which in turn influence the behaviour of airborne pollutants. The relatively flat terrain surrounding Ban Mai can sometimes lead to stagnant air conditions, especially during cooler months, hindering pollutant dispersal and potentially exacerbating local air quality issues. The city’s small size means localized sources, such as agricultural burning and vehicle emissions, have a disproportionately large impact.

Ban Mai’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by Thailand’s tropical climate. The wet season, typically spanning from May to October, brings frequent rainfall and high humidity, generally leading to improved air quality as precipitation washes away particulate matter and dilutes gaseous pollutants. Monsoon winds also play a crucial role in dispersing pollutants, preventing significant build-up. However, heavy rainfall can occasionally lead to localized flooding, which can temporarily release pollutants from inundated areas. The dry season, from November to April, presents a contrasting scenario. Reduced rainfall and lower humidity contribute to a build-up of pollutants. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler months (December-February), trap pollutants near the ground, leading to periods of poorer air quality. Agricultural burning, a widespread practice in the region to clear land for planting, significantly contributes to particulate matter pollution during this period, particularly in February and March. Fog, often prevalent in the mornings during the dry season, further restricts pollutant dispersion. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during these periods, limiting outdoor activity and avoiding areas with visible smoke. The transitional months of April and May see a gradual shift as rainfall increases, leading to a slow improvement in air quality. Overall, the dry season poses the greatest challenge to Ban Mai’s air quality, demanding vigilance and mitigation strategies to protect public health.