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Merefa, nestled within the Kharkivska Oblast of Ukraine, occupies a geographically significant position within the broader East European Plain. Located at approximately 49.8167° N, 36.0500° E, the city’s terrain is characterized by gently rolling hills, a typical feature of the region’s loessal soils. Its elevation, while modest, contributes to localized microclimates that can influence air circulation patterns. Merefa sits roughly 15 kilometers southeast of Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, placing it within the urban sphere of influence but retaining a distinct, smaller-town character. The surrounding landscape is a patchwork of agricultural fields – predominantly wheat and sunflower – interspersed with smaller villages and woodlands. This proximity to intensive agricultural practices introduces potential sources of particulate matter, particularly during planting and harvesting seasons. To the west, the Seversky Donets River basin provides a drainage network, though Merefa itself is not directly adjacent to a major water body. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city transitions quickly into agricultural land, limiting the buffering effect of extensive green spaces. Furthermore, Merefa’s location within a historically industrialized region means it is susceptible to air pollution transported from larger industrial centers, including Kharkiv. The prevailing winds, generally from the northwest, can carry pollutants across the landscape, impacting local air quality. The relatively flat topography can also exacerbate the accumulation of pollutants, particularly during periods of temperature inversion.

Merefa’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by meteorological conditions and regional activities. Spring (March-May) often sees elevated particulate matter levels due to agricultural activities like plowing and fertilizer application, combined with increased dust from thawing ground. The warming temperatures can also lead to increased volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions. Summer (June-August) generally offers the best air quality, with warmer temperatures promoting atmospheric mixing and dispersing pollutants. However, periods of intense heat can exacerbate ozone formation, a secondary pollutant. Autumn (September-November) brings a resurgence of particulate matter, linked to harvest operations and the burning of crop residues, a common, though often discouraged, practice. Temperature inversions, common during clear autumn nights, trap pollutants near the ground, leading to poor air quality episodes. Winter (December-February) presents the most challenging conditions. Cold temperatures and frequent fog events significantly reduce atmospheric mixing, allowing pollutants to accumulate. The use of coal and wood for heating in residential areas further contributes to particulate pollution. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during periods of fog and temperature inversions, particularly in the mornings. During harvest season, wearing a mask can reduce exposure to agricultural dust. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purifiers is also advisable, especially during the colder months.