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Souagui, nestled within the Médéa province of Algeria, occupies a geographically significant position in the High Atlas Mountains foothills. Located at coordinates 36.1167°N, 3.2333°E, the city’s terrain is characterised by undulating hills and valleys, typical of the Tell Atlas range. With an elevation around 800-900 meters above sea level, Souagui experiences a continental climate influenced by its altitude. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with olive groves, orchards, and cereal fields dominating the rural areas. While not directly adjacent to a major body of water, the city is within reasonable proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, influencing humidity levels, though its effect is moderated by the mountainous barrier. Souagui isn’t situated within a heavily industrialised belt, but smaller-scale industrial activity related to agricultural processing and local manufacturing exists. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city centre is densely populated, quickly transitioning to agricultural land and sparsely populated hills. This proximity to agricultural practices, including potential burning of agricultural waste, combined with the topography which can trap pollutants in valleys, significantly impacts local air quality. Dust from unpaved roads and construction also contributes to particulate matter concentrations, particularly during drier periods. The city’s location within a natural bowl-shaped depression exacerbates the potential for temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near ground level.

Souagui’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by Algeria’s Mediterranean climate and local geographical factors. Summer (June-August) typically sees the clearest air, driven by prevailing winds that disperse pollutants and infrequent rainfall which washes particles from the atmosphere. However, high temperatures can promote ozone formation. Autumn (September-November) brings a gradual deterioration in air quality as agricultural burning increases following the harvest, releasing significant amounts of particulate matter. This period also sees a decrease in wind speeds, reducing dispersion. Winter (December-February) is often the most challenging time, with temperature inversions frequently occurring in the valleys surrounding Souagui, trapping pollutants from domestic heating (wood and charcoal) and vehicle emissions. Fog can also exacerbate particulate matter concentrations. Spring (March-May) is a transitional period, with fluctuating conditions. The *chergui*, a hot, dry, dusty wind originating from the Sahara, can significantly degrade air quality during this season, bringing sand and dust particles from hundreds of kilometers away. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during autumn and winter months, and take precautions during *chergui* events. Monitoring wind direction and avoiding peak burning times are advisable.