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Abou el Hassan, nestled within the Chlef province of Algeria, occupies a geographically significant position in the country’s north-central region. Located at coordinates 36.4167°N, 1.2000°E, the city sits approximately 160 meters above sea level, benefiting from a temperate Mediterranean climate influenced by its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, roughly 60 kilometers to the north. The surrounding landscape is characterised by the Tell Atlas mountain range to the south, creating a varied terrain of rolling hills and plains. This topography influences local wind patterns and can contribute to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants. The region is predominantly agricultural, with olive groves, vineyards, and cereal crops dominating the surrounding lands. While Abou el Hassan isn’t a major industrial hub itself, its position within the Chlef province, which has some industrial activity related to food processing and cement production, means it can experience pollutant transport. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural land immediately bordering the city limits. Dust from agricultural activities and potential emissions from regional industries contribute to the baseline particulate matter levels. The city’s location within a valley can exacerbate pollution build-up during calm weather conditions, impacting local air quality.

Air quality in Abou el Hassan experiences a distinct seasonal rhythm. Spring (March-May) often sees a rise in particulate matter due to agricultural burning and increased dust from drying fields, coupled with moderate temperatures and occasional calm winds. Summer (June-August) typically offers the cleanest air, driven by prevailing northerly breezes from the Mediterranean Sea which help disperse pollutants, and infrequent rainfall that washes particles from the atmosphere. However, high temperatures can promote ozone formation. Autumn (September-November) marks a transition period, with decreasing temperatures and the potential for temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. This is often when dust from harvested fields is most prevalent. Winter (December-February) is generally characterised by cooler, wetter conditions, which can improve air quality through rainfall cleansing. However, increased use of heating fuels, particularly wood and potentially less efficient sources, can elevate levels of particulate matter and sulfur dioxide. Sensitive individuals – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should be particularly cautious during spring and autumn. Months to favour for outdoor activity are generally June through August, while September, October, and April require increased vigilance.