Zemoura Air Quality Index (AQI)

Loading live AQI data...

Loading historical AQI trends...

Zemoura, nestled within the Relizane province of Algeria, occupies a geographically significant position in the country’s northwest. Located at coordinates 35.7167°N, 0.7500°E, the city sits on a relatively flat plain, part of the fertile Habra plain, a key agricultural region. This terrain, while conducive to farming, presents challenges for air dispersion, potentially trapping pollutants. Zemoura’s elevation is modest, contributing to limited natural ventilation. The Mediterranean Sea lies approximately 70km to the north, influencing local climate patterns with milder, humid air masses, but its direct impact on daily air quality is less pronounced than regional factors. The surrounding landscape is dominated by agricultural fields – primarily cereals and vineyards – interspersed with small settlements. To the south and east, the terrain gradually rises towards the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. While Zemoura isn’t a major industrial hub, the presence of smaller-scale agricultural processing and local industries, combined with residential heating during cooler months, contribute to localised emissions. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural land immediately bordering the city limits. Dust from agricultural activities and unpaved roads is a significant contributor to particulate matter concentrations, exacerbated by seasonal winds.

Zemoura experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, profoundly impacting its air quality. Summer (June-August) sees consistently high temperatures and low rainfall, leading to increased ozone formation due to photochemical reactions involving vehicle emissions and industrial byproducts. Stagnant air masses and temperature inversions are common, trapping pollutants near the ground. Autumn (September-November) brings a gradual cooling and increased rainfall, initially improving air quality by washing away particulate matter, but also increasing humidity which can exacerbate respiratory issues. Winter (December-February) is the period of greatest concern. While rainfall increases, so does reliance on wood and other biomass for heating, leading to elevated levels of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). Calm wind conditions further worsen the situation. Spring (March-May) offers a transition period, with increasing temperatures and moderate rainfall, generally resulting in improved air quality. However, agricultural burning for land preparation can cause temporary spikes in pollution. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during summer afternoons and winter mornings. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; winds from the south can carry dust from agricultural areas.