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Feidh el Botma, nestled within the Djelfa Province of Algeria, occupies a geographically significant position on the fringes of the Saharan Atlas mountains. Located at approximately 34.53° N, 3.78° E, the city’s elevation of around 850 meters above sea level contributes to a unique microclimate and influences its air quality dynamics. The surrounding landscape is characterized by a transition zone between the arid Sahara Desert and the more fertile plains of northern Algeria. This creates a complex interplay of wind patterns and temperature gradients. The terrain is undulating, with rocky outcrops and plateaus interspersed with agricultural land, primarily dedicated to cereal cultivation and olive groves. While Feidh el Botma lacks direct proximity to major bodies of water, it benefits from occasional moisture-laden winds originating from the Mediterranean Sea, though these are often disrupted by the intervening mountain ranges. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city itself is a modest settlement, surrounded by a predominantly agricultural and pastoral landscape. Industrial activity is limited, primarily consisting of small-scale agricultural processing and local crafts. However, the proximity to larger regional centers like Djelfa, and the potential for transboundary dust transport from the Sahara, significantly impact the city’s air quality. The Saharan Atlas acts as a barrier, sometimes trapping pollutants, while also providing pathways for wind-driven particulate matter. The city’s location within a semi-arid climate zone further exacerbates dust-related air pollution events.

Feidh el Botma’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by its semi-arid climate and regional weather patterns. Spring (March-May) typically sees a gradual improvement in air quality as temperatures rise and rainfall, though infrequent, helps to settle dust. However, this period is also prone to ‘haboobs’ – intense dust storms driven by convective activity – which can dramatically degrade air quality for short durations. Summer (June-August) is characterized by high temperatures and generally stable atmospheric conditions, often leading to temperature inversions, particularly during the early morning hours. These inversions trap pollutants near the ground, potentially increasing localized concentrations. The dry, hot air also promotes photochemical smog formation. Autumn (September-November) brings a shift in wind patterns, with increased northerly winds that can disperse pollutants, but also carry dust from the Sahara. Winter (December-February) is typically the most challenging period for air quality. Cold, stable air masses frequently settle over the region, creating persistent temperature inversions and trapping pollutants. Fog events, though infrequent, can further exacerbate the problem by reducing visibility and increasing particulate matter concentrations. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during winter months and avoid prolonged outdoor exposure during periods of stagnant air or fog. Spring haboobs require immediate shelter and minimizing outdoor activity. During summer, early morning hours should be approached with caution due to potential inversion layers.