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Sidi Lakhdar, nestled within the Mostaganem province of Algeria, occupies a geographically significant position along the Mediterranean coast. Located at approximately 36.14°N, 0.76°E, the city’s terrain is characterized by a gently sloping coastal plain, transitioning inland to a more undulating landscape marked by low hills and agricultural fields. Its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea exerts a considerable influence on the local climate and, consequently, air quality. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of cultivated land – primarily olive groves and cereal crops – interspersed with pockets of maquis shrubland, a typical Mediterranean vegetation type. To the west, the coastline stretches towards Arzew, an industrial hub containing gas processing plants and refineries, a key factor impacting regional air quality. To the east lies the broader urban sprawl of Mostaganem, creating an urban–rural gradient where the city’s air quality is affected by both local emissions and those originating from larger industrial and population centers. Sidi Lakhdar’s elevation is relatively low, averaging around 15 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate the trapping of pollutants, particularly during periods of temperature inversion. The city’s location within the Maghreb region, experiencing a semi-arid climate, means that rainfall is limited, further reducing the natural cleansing effect of precipitation on the atmosphere. The prevailing winds, often originating from the northwest, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants, depending on their strength and direction relative to the industrial zones.

Sidi Lakhdar’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by its Mediterranean climate. The dry summer months (June-August) typically see the poorest air quality. High temperatures and minimal rainfall create stable atmospheric conditions, frequently leading to temperature inversions where a layer of warm air traps cooler air and pollutants near the ground. This stagnation reduces the dispersion of emissions from local sources and the industrial zone of Arzew. Dust storms, originating from the Sahara Desert, are also more frequent during this period, significantly degrading air quality and visibility. Autumn (September-November) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures decrease and wind patterns become more variable, aiding in pollutant dispersal. Winter (December-February) often experiences periods of fog, particularly along the coast, which can trap pollutants and reduce air quality, though generally less severely than during the summer. The occasional rainfall during winter provides some natural cleansing. Spring (March-May) generally offers the best air quality, with increased rainfall and stronger winds helping to flush out pollutants. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the summer months, limiting outdoor activities during peak heat and dust storm events. Even during the more favourable spring months, monitoring local conditions and avoiding areas near industrial activity is advisable. Maintaining good hydration and avoiding strenuous outdoor exertion during warmer periods is also recommended.