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Prachin Buri, nestled in the Central Plains of Thailand, occupies a strategically important position within the country’s eastern corridor. Its coordinates (14.0567° N, 101.3739° E) place it approximately 120 kilometers northeast of Bangkok, acting as a vital link between the capital and the northeastern provinces. The city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Chao Phraya River basin, with gentle undulations marking the transition towards the Khorat Plateau to the north and east. This flat topography, while facilitating urban expansion, can also contribute to air quality challenges, particularly during periods of stagnant atmospheric conditions. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of rice paddies, sugarcane plantations, and fruit orchards, reflecting the region’s strong agricultural base. To the west, the landscape gradually rises, offering some relief from potential pollution accumulation. The city’s proximity to the Bangpakong River, a major tributary of the Chao Phraya, provides a natural drainage system and a source of water, but also introduces the potential for waterborne pollutants impacting air quality through aerosolization. Prachin Buri’s urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city center is characterized by commercial and administrative buildings, while the outskirts transition quickly into agricultural land and smaller rural settlements. Industrial activity, primarily related to food processing and agricultural inputs, is concentrated in specific zones, influencing localized air quality. The regional position, bridging agricultural heartlands and a major urban center, creates a complex interplay of factors affecting the city’s atmospheric environment.

Prachin Buri’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from November to April, presents the most significant air quality concerns. Reduced rainfall and lower humidity lead to increased dust levels, exacerbated by agricultural burning practices in surrounding rural areas preparing fields for the next planting season. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler months (December-January), trap pollutants near the ground, intensifying localized concentrations. The prevailing winds during this period are often light and variable, further hindering pollutant dispersion. Conversely, the wet season (May to October) brings relief through frequent rainfall, which naturally cleanses the atmosphere and reduces particulate matter. Monsoon winds, though sometimes bringing humidity, generally provide better ventilation, dispersing pollutants more effectively. Fog, particularly in the early morning during the cooler months, can temporarily worsen air quality by trapping pollutants in a concentrated layer. Outdoor activities are generally best enjoyed during the wet season, particularly from June to September. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, minimizing prolonged outdoor exposure and considering the use of face masks when air quality is visibly affected. Agricultural burning, a recurring issue, necessitates vigilance and adherence to local regulations to mitigate its impact on public health. The transition periods between seasons can be unpredictable, with fluctuating wind patterns and occasional dust events.