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Terme, a coastal city in Samsun Province, Turkey, occupies a geographically significant position on the southern coast of the Black Sea. Situated at coordinates 41.2092°N, 36.9739°E, the city’s terrain is characterised by a narrow coastal plain, rising quickly into the forested hills of the Eastern Black Sea Region. This rapid elevation change influences local wind patterns and can contribute to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near ground level. Terme’s population of approximately 71,092 is concentrated along the coastline, with a noticeable urban-rural gradient as one moves inland. The Black Sea directly impacts air quality, providing a source of moisture and influencing wind direction, often carrying pollutants away from the city, but also contributing to high humidity which can exacerbate particulate matter issues. The surrounding landscape is a mix of agricultural land – particularly hazelnut orchards, a key regional crop – and deciduous forests. While Terme isn’t a major industrial hub, regional industrial activity in Samsun province, coupled with agricultural practices like fertilizer use and burning of agricultural waste, can contribute to background pollution levels. The city’s location within a river delta also means potential for localised humidity and stagnant air conditions, impacting pollutant dispersion.

Terme experiences a temperate Black Sea climate, with distinct seasonal variations impacting air quality. Winter (December-February) often sees poorer air quality due to increased reliance on coal and wood burning for heating, coupled with frequent temperature inversions caused by cold, stable air masses. These inversions trap pollutants close to the ground, particularly particulate matter. Spring (March-May) brings improving conditions as temperatures rise and rainfall increases, washing pollutants from the atmosphere. However, agricultural burning of crop residue after harvest can temporarily elevate particulate matter levels. Summer (June-August) generally offers the best air quality, with prevailing winds from the sea dispersing pollutants and higher temperatures promoting atmospheric mixing. However, periods of calm weather can still lead to localised pollution build-up. Autumn (September-November) sees a gradual deterioration in air quality as heating demand increases and atmospheric stability returns. November is often the most polluted month. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during winter and periods of agricultural burning. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; onshore winds can bring marine aerosols, while offshore winds may carry pollutants from inland sources.