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Ayvacık, nestled within the Samsun Province of Turkey, occupies a geographically significant position along the Black Sea coast. Located at approximately 41.0036° N, 36.6319° E, the town’s terrain is characterized by a gradual slope from the coastal plain towards the interior, rising gently towards the mountainous regions that define the hinterland. This coastal plain, a product of alluvial deposition from the Yeşilırmak River, supports a mix of agricultural land and scattered settlements. The surrounding landscape is a blend of fertile farmlands, primarily dedicated to wheat and corn cultivation, and rolling hills covered in scrub vegetation and scattered forests. Ayvacık’s proximity to the Black Sea exerts a considerable influence on its climate and, consequently, its air quality. The sea breeze, while generally beneficial in dispersing pollutants, can also trap moisture and contribute to fog formation under certain meteorological conditions. The town sits within a transitional zone between the agricultural belt of the Yeşilırmak basin and the more rugged terrain of the Pontic Mountains. While Ayvacık itself is a relatively small town, it benefits from its connection to the larger industrial and transportation networks of Samsun, approximately 70km to the east. This connection, however, also means it can be susceptible to transboundary pollution events. The urban-rural gradient around Ayvacık is relatively smooth, with small villages and agricultural holdings blending seamlessly into the town’s periphery, minimizing the sharp contrast often seen in larger urban areas. Elevation plays a minor role, with the town situated at a low altitude, generally below 100 meters, limiting the potential for significant elevation-driven air circulation patterns.

Ayvacık’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by its Black Sea climate. Winters, lasting from November to March, are typically characterized by high humidity, frequent precipitation, and periods of dense fog. These conditions often lead to stagnant air masses and reduced dispersion of pollutants, particularly those originating from agricultural practices (ammonia from fertilizer use) and occasional domestic heating sources. Temperature inversions, common during winter nights, trap cooler air near the ground, further exacerbating pollution accumulation. Spring (April-May) brings a gradual improvement as winds increase and temperatures rise, aiding in pollutant dispersal. Agricultural activity intensifies during this period, potentially releasing particulate matter from soil disturbance and pesticide application. Summer (June-August) generally offers the best air quality, with consistent sea breezes providing effective ventilation. However, occasional heatwaves can lead to increased ozone formation, a secondary pollutant. Autumn (September-October) sees a transition period, with decreasing wind speeds and increasing humidity, mirroring the winter conditions and a potential for declining air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the winter months, limiting outdoor activity on foggy days and avoiding areas near agricultural fields during peak fertilizer application periods. During the warmer months, while generally favorable, monitoring for ozone alerts is advisable, particularly during prolonged periods of sunshine and high temperatures. The Black Sea’s influence means that coastal fog is a recurring feature, impacting visibility and potentially trapping pollutants close to the ground.