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Si Mustapha, nestled within the Boumerdes province of Algeria, occupies a strategically significant position along the Mediterranean coast, approximately 50 kilometers east of Algiers. The city’s geography is defined by its location within the Tell Atlas mountains, rising to an elevation of around 350 meters above sea level. This mountainous terrain significantly influences local air circulation patterns, often creating localized valleys and slopes that can trap pollutants. The surrounding landscape is a blend of rugged hills, terraced agricultural land, and the expansive Mediterranean Sea to the north. Boumerdes itself is characterized by a gradual urban–rural gradient, with Si Mustapha representing a smaller, more tightly-knit urban center transitioning into the surrounding agricultural areas. These agricultural zones, while vital for regional food security, can contribute to air pollution through the use of fertilizers and occasional agricultural burning, particularly during harvest seasons. The proximity to the Mediterranean Sea introduces a maritime influence, moderating temperatures but also bringing in occasional salt spray and marine aerosols. Further inland, the presence of industrial activity in the broader Boumerdes region, including cement production and some light manufacturing, contributes to regional air quality challenges. The city’s location within a relatively narrow coastal plain, flanked by the mountains, limits the dispersion of pollutants, making it susceptible to episodes of poor air quality, especially during periods of stagnant air.

Si Mustapha’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by the interplay of Mediterranean climate patterns and local topography. The dry summer months (June-August) often see a build-up of pollutants due to high temperatures and reduced rainfall. Intense solar radiation promotes photochemical reactions, increasing ozone levels, while stagnant air conditions, frequently occurring during this period, prevent effective dispersion. The mountains surrounding the city can contribute to temperature inversions, trapping cooler air near the ground and further hindering pollutant dispersal. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) generally offer improved air quality, with more frequent rainfall and increased wind speeds helping to flush out pollutants. However, agricultural burning practices during the autumn harvest can temporarily degrade air quality. Winter (December-February) brings cooler temperatures and increased humidity, often accompanied by fog, which can trap pollutants close to the ground, leading to periods of reduced visibility and potentially elevated particulate matter. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the summer months and on days with dense fog. Limiting strenuous outdoor activity during these periods and monitoring local air quality reports are advisable. The prevailing northwesterly winds typically provide some ventilation, but their effectiveness is diminished during periods of atmospheric stability.