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Hadjadj, a municipality within the Mostaganem Province of Algeria, occupies a geographically significant position along the Mediterranean coastline. Located at approximately 36.1000°N latitude and 0.3333°E longitude, the city benefits from a relatively mild Mediterranean climate, but is also exposed to the influences of the Sahara Desert to the south. The terrain surrounding Hadjadj is characterised by a gentle slope descending towards the sea, interspersed with arable land dedicated to agriculture, primarily olive groves and cereal crops. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to particulate matter pollution through dust from tilling and potential pesticide drift. The proximity to the Mediterranean Sea moderates temperatures and introduces sea breezes, which can both disperse and concentrate pollutants depending on prevailing wind patterns. Mostaganem Province, and by extension Hadjadj, experiences a noticeable urban-rural gradient; the city itself represents a concentrated area of human activity, with associated emissions from traffic, domestic heating, and small-scale industry. Further inland, the landscape transitions to more sparsely populated, semi-arid regions. The city’s location within a coastal plain means it’s susceptible to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near ground level, particularly during stable atmospheric conditions. The regional geology, rich in sedimentary rock, also contributes to background dust levels.

Air quality in Hadjadj follows a distinct seasonal pattern, heavily influenced by the Mediterranean climate and regional weather systems. Summer (June-August) typically sees improved air quality due to consistent sea breezes that effectively disperse pollutants, though ozone levels can rise with increased sunlight and temperatures. However, this is also a period of increased agricultural activity, potentially elevating dust and pesticide-related particulate matter. Autumn (September-November) brings a transition period, with decreasing temperatures and shifting wind patterns. Dust storms originating from the Sahara Desert become more frequent, significantly impacting air quality, particularly in October and November. Winter (December-February) is generally the period of poorest air quality. Reduced wind speeds, increased reliance on domestic heating (often wood or charcoal), and frequent temperature inversions trap pollutants close to the ground. Fog, common along the coast, exacerbates this effect. Spring (March-May) sees a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and winds become more consistent, but Saharan dust events can still occur. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during winter and periods of high dust concentration. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; winds from the south and southeast are likely to carry Saharan dust.