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Göksun, nestled within the Kahramanmaraş Province of Turkey, occupies a geographically significant position in the southern Anatolian region. Located at coordinates 38.0211° N, 36.4917° E, the city is characterized by a rugged, mountainous terrain, typical of the eastern Taurus Mountains. The surrounding landscape is dominated by steep slopes and valleys carved by the Göksun River and its tributaries. This river, a vital water source, flows through the region, influencing local microclimates and agricultural practices. Göksun’s elevation, averaging around 1,400 meters (4,593 feet), contributes to cooler temperatures and increased precipitation compared to lower-lying areas. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; the city centre is relatively compact, quickly transitioning into agricultural lands – primarily orchards and fields cultivating grains – and then into forested mountainous areas. While Göksun isn’t a major industrial hub, regional agricultural activities, including the use of fertilizers and potential burning of agricultural waste, contribute to localized air quality concerns. The topography, with its valleys, can trap pollutants, exacerbating air quality issues during periods of stagnant air. The distance from major coastal areas mitigates some marine influences, but prevailing wind patterns can transport pollutants from nearby urban centres.

Göksun experiences a distinct seasonal air quality pattern dictated by its continental climate. Spring (March-May) sees a gradual improvement in air quality as winter snowmelt cleanses the atmosphere, but agricultural burning begins, potentially increasing particulate matter. Summers (June-August) are generally the clearest, with prevailing winds dispersing pollutants and high temperatures promoting atmospheric mixing. However, prolonged drought can lead to dust storms, impacting visibility and respiratory health. Autumn (September-November) marks a deterioration in air quality. Temperatures drop, leading to increased use of coal and wood for heating, and temperature inversions become more frequent, trapping pollutants in the valleys. These inversions, where a layer of warm air sits above cooler air, are particularly pronounced during calm, clear nights. Winter (December-February) is the most challenging period. Snowfall can temporarily improve air quality by scavenging pollutants, but prolonged cold spells and increased heating demand lead to elevated levels of particulate matter and other pollutants. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during autumn and winter, particularly on calm, cold days. Monitoring local conditions and heeding health advisories is crucial.