Abstract: In this paper, some features of atmospheric dispersion and transport near the surface and its influence on air pollution in some cities of South China are discussed by using the observations in Guangzhou, Zhanjiang and Shantou during 1980—1983. It is found that the maximum concentration often occurs near source through intensive vertical diffusion, and the values of concentration decrease with the distance downwind rather rapidly. Due to the effects of perturbations, the distribution of air pollution often presents irregular undulations. In addition, the effect of monsoon on transport of pollutant in South China is obvious, therefore, the high areas of the average pollutant concentration change with seasons markedly. The air pollution over coastal cities in South China is also effected by sea–and land–breezes to a certain degree, and therefore, the distribution appears daily variation. The rainwash effect of precipitation is also discussed