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Harrison, Ohio, nestled within Hamilton County, occupies a strategically important position within the Cincinnati metropolitan area. Its coordinates (39.2584, -84.7868) place it on relatively flat terrain, characteristic of the Western Allegheny Plateau, a gently rolling landscape sculpted by glacial activity during the Pleistocene epoch. The city sits along the Little Miami River, a significant waterway historically vital for transportation and now a recreational asset. This proximity to water can, under certain meteorological conditions, contribute to localized fog formation, impacting air quality. Harrison’s location within the Ohio River Valley, a broad basin, presents a geographical challenge for air dispersion. The surrounding landscape is a blend of agricultural fields – primarily corn and soybean cultivation – and suburban development, creating an urban–rural gradient that influences pollutant sources. The city’s position within the broader industrial belt of the Ohio River Valley means it’s susceptible to pollutants originating from larger urban centers and industrial facilities further upstream. While Harrison itself is a smaller community, its integration into the regional transportation network, including Interstate 74, contributes to vehicular emissions. The elevation is relatively low, averaging around 650 feet above sea level, which can exacerbate temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. The prevailing winds, generally from the southwest, can carry pollutants from industrial areas to the east and southeast, impacting Harrison’s air quality profile. The surrounding topography doesn't offer significant natural barriers to pollutant transport, making regional air quality a key factor.

Harrison’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle driven by meteorological patterns. Spring (March-May) often sees elevated levels of pollen, impacting respiratory health and contributing to a hazy atmosphere. While temperatures are rising, the increased humidity can trap pollutants, particularly during periods of stagnant air. Summer (June-August) typically brings warmer temperatures and occasional thunderstorms, which can temporarily cleanse the air. However, hot, still days can lead to ozone formation, a secondary pollutant created by reactions involving sunlight and vehicle emissions. Autumn (September-November) often presents the most challenging period. Cooler temperatures combined with stable atmospheric conditions frequently result in temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air sits above cooler air near the ground, preventing vertical mixing and trapping pollutants. This is often compounded by agricultural activities, such as field burning, which can release particulate matter. Winter (December-February) generally sees the lowest pollution levels due to colder temperatures and increased precipitation, which helps to wash pollutants from the atmosphere. However, cold, still days with fog can create localized air quality issues. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should monitor local air quality reports and limit outdoor activity on days with stagnant air or elevated pollen counts, particularly during spring and autumn. Avoiding strenuous outdoor exercise during peak ozone periods in summer is also advisable.