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Kakhovka, situated in the Khersonska Oblast of southern Ukraine, occupies a strategically vital position along the Dnipro River, a major waterway traversing the country. The city’s geography is defined by its proximity to the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant and Reservoir, a vast artificial lake created in 1956 as part of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Station. This reservoir significantly influences the local microclimate and landscape, creating a relatively flat, fertile floodplain. The surrounding terrain is predominantly agricultural, characterized by expansive fields of wheat, sunflowers, and other crops, typical of the Black Sea Steppe. This agricultural activity, while economically important, contributes to potential sources of air pollution, particularly through the use of fertilizers and machinery. The urban fabric of Kakhovka is a mix of Soviet-era apartment blocks and more recent developments, reflecting its history as a planned industrial and agricultural hub. The city’s location within the broader Black Sea region places it in a zone susceptible to influences from both continental and maritime air masses. The urban–rural gradient transitions quickly from the city center to the surrounding agricultural lands, with small villages and rural settlements dotting the landscape. Elevation is minimal, averaging around 25 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate the trapping of pollutants under certain meteorological conditions. The proximity to industrial zones further upstream on the Dnipro, and potential agricultural burning practices in the wider Oblast, can also impact Kakhovka’s air quality, making it sensitive to regional pollution transport.

Kakhovka’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle heavily influenced by its climate and surrounding environment. Spring (March-May) often brings a noticeable increase in particulate matter due to agricultural activities – soil disturbance from plowing, fertilizer application, and the potential for controlled burns of crop residue, though regulations aim to minimize this. Summers (June-August) are generally drier and warmer, with prevailing winds often dispersing pollutants, leading to improved air quality. However, periods of intense heat can contribute to ground-level ozone formation. Autumn (September-November) presents a complex picture. While cooler temperatures can reduce ozone, the harvest season intensifies agricultural emissions, and the increased frequency of temperature inversions, particularly in October and November, can trap pollutants near the ground, leading to stagnant air. Winter (December-February) is typically the most challenging period. Cold, stable air masses combined with frequent fog and temperature inversions create conditions conducive to pollutant accumulation. Reduced wind speeds limit dispersion, and residential heating, often reliant on less efficient fuels, adds to the burden. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit prolonged outdoor exposure during these periods, particularly on days with dense fog or calm winds. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can also be beneficial. Public health advisories are crucial during periods of elevated pollution, advising reduced physical activity and awareness of symptoms.