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Vize, a small town nestled in Kırklareli Province, northwestern Turkey, occupies a geographically significant position within the Thracian region. Situated at approximately 41.57° N, 27.77° E, its coordinates place it within a gently undulating landscape, characterized by rolling hills and fertile plains. The town’s elevation averages around 250 meters above sea level, contributing to localized microclimates and influencing air circulation patterns. Vize lies close to the border with Bulgaria, impacting regional trade and potentially introducing transboundary pollution influences. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive fields of sunflowers, wheat, and corn dominating the rural areas. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to seasonal particulate matter from tilling and harvesting. To the south, the landscape gradually rises towards the Balkan Mountains, creating a barrier that can trap pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. The urban–rural gradient around Vize is relatively sharp; the town itself is compact, with a clear delineation between built-up areas and the surrounding farmland. The proximity to the Meriç River, though not directly adjacent, influences humidity levels and can affect the dispersion of pollutants. There are no major industrial belts immediately surrounding Vize, but the town’s location within a broader agricultural region means that fertilizer use and pesticide application can impact local air quality, particularly during peak agricultural seasons. The town’s relatively small size and limited industrial activity generally result in lower baseline pollution levels compared to larger Turkish cities.

Vize’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by its climate and agricultural practices. Spring (March-May) often sees a gradual improvement in air quality as temperatures rise and winds increase, dispersing accumulated winter pollutants. However, this period also coincides with the start of the agricultural season, bringing increased dust from plowing and planting activities, potentially elevating particulate matter levels. Summer (June-August) typically offers the best air quality, with consistent winds and high temperatures promoting good ventilation. However, prolonged periods of intense heat can lead to stagnant air conditions and ozone formation, though this is generally less pronounced than in larger urban areas. Autumn (September-November) marks a shift, with cooler temperatures and decreasing wind speeds. Agricultural activities intensify during harvest, leading to increased dust and smoke from crop residue burning, which can significantly degrade air quality. The most challenging period is winter (December-February), when cold, stable air masses frequently settle over the region. Temperature inversions, common during this season, trap pollutants near the ground, leading to periods of reduced visibility and potentially elevated concentrations of particulate matter. Fog, a frequent occurrence in winter, further exacerbates this issue. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor exertion during these periods. During the autumn harvest and winter months, it’s advisable to monitor local conditions and consider wearing a mask when air quality is visibly impacted.