El Malah, nestled within the Aïn Temouchent province of Algeria, occupies a compelling geographic position. Located at coordinates 35.3883, -1.0944, the city benefits from proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, approximately 15 kilometers to the north, influencing its climate and potentially dispersing some pollutants. The terrain is characterised by rolling hills and coastal plains, a typical feature of the Tell Atlas mountain range foothills. El Malah’s elevation, though not extreme, contributes to localised weather patterns. The surrounding landscape is a mix of agricultural zones – primarily vineyards and olive groves, reflecting the region’s fertile soil – and increasingly, some small-scale industrial activity related to food processing and packaging. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city centre is densely populated, transitioning quickly to agricultural land and sparse vegetation. This proximity to agricultural practices introduces potential sources of particulate matter from dust and seasonal burning. The prevailing winds, generally from the west, carry maritime influences but can also transport pollutants from regional industrial centres further inland. The city’s layout, typical of Algerian coastal towns, features a concentrated core and outward sprawl, impacting ventilation and pollutant dispersion. Understanding these geographical factors is crucial for assessing and mitigating air quality challenges in El Malah.

El Malah experiences a Mediterranean climate, dictating a distinct seasonal air quality narrative. Summers (June-August) often see relatively good air quality, driven by consistent sea breezes that help disperse pollutants, though ozone levels can rise with intense sunlight. However, heatwaves can exacerbate ground-level ozone formation. Autumn (September-November) brings a transition period; agricultural burning of crop residue becomes more frequent, leading to spikes in particulate matter, particularly PM2.5 and PM10. This is often coupled with calmer wind conditions. Winters (December-February) are generally mild and wet, with increased rainfall effectively scavenging pollutants from the air, resulting in the cleanest air of the year. However, temperature inversions, common during stable winter conditions, can trap pollutants near the ground. Spring (March-May) is a period of fluctuating conditions. Increasing temperatures and agricultural activity contribute to a gradual decline in air quality. Dust storms, originating from the Sahara Desert, are also possible during this season. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during autumn and spring, and monitor local conditions during summer heatwaves. Staying indoors on windy days, particularly in spring, is also advisable.