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Perşembe, nestled along the Black Sea coast in Ordu Province, Turkey, presents a unique geographic setting influencing its air quality. The city’s location at 41.0656°N, 37.7714°E places it within a temperate oceanic climate, characterised by high humidity and abundant rainfall. Perşembe is built on a narrow coastal plain, rising steeply into the Pontic Mountains to the south. This topography creates a funnel effect, potentially trapping pollutants during calm weather conditions. The Black Sea directly impacts the city, providing a source of moisture and influencing wind patterns. While Perşembe isn’t a major industrial hub, the surrounding Ordu province features hazelnut cultivation – a significant agricultural activity. Pesticide and fertiliser use, alongside biomass burning for heating in rural areas, contribute to particulate matter. The urban-rural gradient is sharp; the city centre experiences higher concentrations of vehicle emissions, while surrounding villages are more affected by agricultural practices. The terrain limits dispersion, meaning pollutants can accumulate in valleys and lower-lying areas. The proximity to the sea offers some dilution, but prevailing winds often blow pollutants parallel to the coastline, impacting neighbouring settlements. Understanding this interplay of coastal, mountainous, and agricultural influences is crucial for managing air quality in Perşembe.

Perşembe’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern. Winter (December-February) typically sees the poorest air quality, driven by increased reliance on coal and wood for heating, coupled with frequent temperature inversions trapping pollutants in the coastal valleys. Calm, stable atmospheric conditions exacerbate this, leading to higher concentrations of particulate matter. Spring (March-May) brings improvement as temperatures rise and heating demand decreases, though rainfall can be intermittent, washing pollutants from surfaces but also creating damp conditions conducive to mould growth. Summer (June-August) generally offers the cleanest air, benefiting from sea breezes and higher mixing heights, dispersing pollutants effectively. However, increased tourism and traffic can locally elevate emissions. Autumn (September-November) is a transitional period. Hazelnut harvesting activities increase, potentially releasing dust and agricultural chemicals. Rainfall increases, and the first temperature inversions begin to form. Sensitive individuals – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should be particularly cautious during winter and autumn. Avoiding strenuous outdoor activity on still, cold days is advisable. Monitoring local conditions and utilising indoor air purification can provide additional protection. Fog, common in the cooler months, can also trap pollutants, reducing visibility and worsening air quality.