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Keşan is strategically positioned in the eastern reaches of Thrace, serving as a vital urban node within the Edirne province of Turkey. The city is defined by its location on a fertile alluvial plain, characterized by gently undulating terrain that facilitates extensive agricultural activity. To the west, the stunning Saros Gulf provides a crucial maritime influence, introducing saline breezes that help ventilate the urban core and mitigate the accumulation of stagnant pollutants. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of vast sunflower and wheat fields, which creates a distinct urban-rural gradient where the built environment blends seamlessly into the agrarian hinterland. This openness generally allows for efficient atmospheric dispersion; however, the regional positioning within the Ergene basin's wider influence means the area can occasionally experience the lingering effects of broader regional pollution plumes. The urban character of Keşan is that of a transit hub, with major road networks intersecting to connect Istanbul with the Aegean coast, introducing a consistent stream of vehicular emissions. Elevation remains relatively low, which prevents extreme mountain-induced inversions but allows for the settling of particulate matter during calm, humid conditions. The interaction between the humid air from the Saros Gulf and the dry continental air from the interior creates a dynamic atmospheric environment that directly modulates the concentration of ground-level ozone and particulate matter, making the city's air quality highly dependent on prevailing wind directions and the shifting seasonal weather patterns.

The air quality narrative in Keşan follows a rhythmic cycle dictated by agricultural calendars and Thracian meteorology. Winter brings the most significant challenges, as the drop in temperature prompts a widespread reliance on solid fuels for domestic heating. During cold, windless nights, temperature inversions can trap particulate matter near the surface, leading to localized smog that lingers in the town center. Sensitive groups, particularly those with asthma, should limit outdoor exertion during these stagnant January and February mornings. As spring arrives, the atmosphere clears, but the air becomes saturated with bio-aerosols and pollen from the surrounding plains, which can trigger respiratory distress. Summer is characterized by high solar radiation and heat, which catalyze the formation of ground-level ozone. While the refreshing breezes from the Saros Gulf often disperse these pollutants, the midday heat can still create oppressive conditions for the elderly. The most critical period often occurs in autumn, specifically during the post-harvest window. The traditional practice of burning agricultural stubble in the surrounding fields releases plumes of thick smoke and fine particulate matter that drift into the urban area, significantly degrading air quality in October and November. This seasonal spike requires residents to monitor local conditions closely. To maximize health, outdoor activities are best enjoyed during the breezy transition of late spring or the clear days of early winter, provided the wind is blowing from the west, carrying clean maritime air across the city streets.