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Menaa, a small town nestled within the Biskra Province of Algeria, occupies a geographically significant position within the Saharan Atlas mountains. Located at approximately 35.1667° latitude and 6.0000° longitude, Menaa’s elevation of around 600 meters above sea level contributes to its unique microclimate and influences local air quality. The town sits on the edge of the Ziban, a vast, fertile plain formed by the oases of the Biskra region, a landscape historically vital for date palm cultivation and agriculture. This agricultural activity, while providing sustenance, can also contribute to localized emissions, particularly during harvest seasons. To the west, the rugged slopes of the Saharan Atlas rise dramatically, creating a rain shadow effect that limits precipitation and contributes to arid conditions. The surrounding landscape is predominantly desert, characterized by sand dunes and rocky plateaus, which can trap pollutants and limit dispersion. Menaa’s proximity to Biskra, a larger urban center approximately 15 kilometers away, means it is susceptible to air pollution drift from industrial and vehicular sources within Biskra. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with Menaa maintaining a more rural character compared to the increasingly industrialized Biskra. The lack of significant bodies of water nearby further exacerbates the dry climate and limits natural air purification processes, making the town’s air quality particularly sensitive to local emissions and regional wind patterns. The terrain’s topography also influences how pollutants accumulate, often leading to higher concentrations in valleys and depressions.

Menaa’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by its arid climate and meteorological conditions. The warm, dry months of spring (March-May) often see a gradual increase in particulate matter as agricultural activities intensify, with dust from nearby fields becoming a significant factor. Strong, hot winds, known as Chergui, frequently blow from the Sahara during this period, carrying fine sand and dust particles that can significantly degrade air quality. Summer (June-August) is typically the most challenging period, characterized by intense heat and stagnant air. Temperature inversions, common during these months, trap pollutants near the ground, leading to elevated concentrations. The lack of rainfall and minimal wind speeds further exacerbate this issue. Autumn (September-November) brings a slight improvement as temperatures begin to cool and wind patterns become more variable, though dust storms remain a possibility. Winter (December-February) generally offers the best air quality, with cooler temperatures and occasional rainfall helping to cleanse the atmosphere. However, cold, still nights can occasionally lead to localized fog, which can trap pollutants. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during spring and summer, limiting outdoor activities during peak heat and dust storm events. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration is also recommended throughout the year, particularly during periods of elevated dust levels. The dry climate necessitates careful water management to minimize dust generation from agricultural practices.