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Sour, a small town nestled within the Mostaganem province of Algeria, occupies a geographically significant position along the Mediterranean coast. Located at approximately 36.0006° N, 0.3414° E, its proximity to the sea profoundly influences its microclimate and, consequently, its air quality. The town sits on relatively flat terrain, part of the broader coastal plain that characterizes this region of western Algeria. This flatness, while facilitating urban development, can also exacerbate air pollution episodes as it limits vertical mixing and allows pollutants to accumulate. Sour is surrounded by a landscape transitioning from coastal scrubland and agricultural fields to the foothills of the Tell Atlas Mountains, which rise to the south. This gradient creates a complex interplay of wind patterns and temperature variations. The surrounding agricultural zones, while vital for the regional economy, can contribute to air pollution through the use of fertilizers and pesticides, as well as through seasonal burning practices. Further inland, industrial activity in the broader Mostaganem region, including petrochemical processing and manufacturing, can impact Sour’s air quality through long-range transport of pollutants. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with Sour acting as a small node within a larger network of coastal settlements and agricultural communities. The Mediterranean Sea itself provides a moderating influence on temperature, but also introduces marine aerosols that can affect visibility and contribute to secondary pollutant formation. The relatively low elevation of Sour (around 15 meters above sea level) means it is susceptible to sea breezes and coastal fog, which can trap pollutants under certain atmospheric conditions.

Sour’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the interplay of Mediterranean climate characteristics and regional weather systems. The dry season, spanning roughly from April to October, typically sees increased particulate matter concentrations. Strong, persistent sunshine leads to elevated photochemical smog formation, as sunlight drives reactions between nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds. During the summer months (July-August), intense heat and calm winds often result in temperature inversions, trapping pollutants close to the ground and leading to periods of reduced air quality. The coastal location means that sea breezes can provide some ventilation, but their effectiveness is diminished during these stagnant periods. The wet season, from November to March, brings cooler temperatures and increased rainfall, which naturally helps to cleanse the atmosphere by removing particulate matter. However, periods of heavy fog, common during the winter months, can also trap pollutants, creating localized air quality concerns. Spring (March-April) and Autumn (October-November) represent transitional periods with more variable weather patterns. Wind speeds tend to be higher during these seasons, promoting better dispersion of pollutants. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the hot, dry summer months and be mindful of fog conditions in winter. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wetter months and the transitional seasons, although agricultural burning practices in the surrounding areas can occasionally impact air quality even then.