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Karaağaç, nestled within the Hatay Province of Turkey, occupies a strategically significant location at the crossroads of historical trade routes and diverse landscapes. Situated at approximately 36.5667° N, 36.1333° E, the town’s geography is defined by its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, roughly 20 kilometers to the west, and the foothills of the Amanos Mountains rising to the east. This positioning creates a complex interplay of maritime and orographic influences on the local climate and, consequently, air quality. The terrain is gently undulating, transitioning from coastal plains to steeper slopes as one moves inland. Karaağaç itself sits at a modest elevation, contributing to a relatively mild climate, but also potentially trapping pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – predominantly olive groves and citrus orchards – interspersed with small villages and scattered rural settlements. This agricultural activity, while vital to the regional economy, can contribute to localized air pollution through the use of fertilizers and occasional agricultural burning. Further east, the Amanos Mountains act as a barrier, influencing wind patterns and potentially hindering the dispersion of pollutants. The urban–rural gradient is gradual, with Karaağaç exhibiting a distinct small-town character, lacking the dense industrial zones found in larger Turkish cities, though regional transport routes pass through, bringing associated emissions. The Mediterranean influence moderates temperatures, but also introduces sea salt aerosols, impacting atmospheric chemistry.

Karaağaç’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal rhythm dictated by its Mediterranean climate and regional weather patterns. Summers (June-August) are typically hot and dry, characterized by stagnant air and frequent temperature inversions, particularly during July and August. These inversions trap pollutants near the ground, leading to a noticeable increase in particulate matter and potentially other emissions from agricultural activities. The lack of significant rainfall during this period exacerbates the issue. Autumn (September-November) brings a gradual shift, with increased wind speeds and occasional rainfall, which helps to cleanse the atmosphere. However, agricultural burning, a traditional practice in the region, can contribute to localized spikes in air pollution during this transition period. Winters (December-February) are relatively mild and wet, with frequent rainfall and strong, northwesterly winds that generally disperse pollutants. Fog, however, can occasionally form in the valleys, temporarily reducing visibility and trapping pollutants. Spring (March-May) is generally the most pleasant time of year for air quality, with moderate temperatures, frequent rainfall, and consistent wind patterns. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the summer months, limiting outdoor activity during peak heat and avoiding areas with visible smoke. While winter winds generally improve air quality, the occasional fog can pose a temporary risk. Overall, the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor pursuits, but awareness of agricultural practices remains crucial.