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Hammam Dalaa, nestled within the M’sila Province of Algeria, occupies a geographically significant position in the country’s central region. Located at approximately 35.9281° N, 4.3744° E, the city sits on a gently undulating plateau, part of the Tell Atlas mountains, at an elevation of roughly 850 meters above sea level. This elevation contributes to a cooler climate compared to coastal areas, but also influences atmospheric stability, a key factor in air quality. The surrounding landscape is characterized by a mix of semi-arid steppe and agricultural land, primarily dedicated to cereal cultivation and olive groves. To the west, the landscape gradually transitions into more rugged, mountainous terrain. Hammam Dalaa’s proximity to the Chelif River, though not directly adjacent, provides a degree of regional moisture and influences local weather patterns. The urban fabric itself is relatively compact, exhibiting a traditional Algerian town layout with a central medina and expanding residential areas. While not situated directly within a major industrial belt, the M’sila province does contain some light industrial activity, including food processing and textile manufacturing, which can contribute to localized pollution. The urban–rural gradient around Hammam Dalaa is relatively sharp, with agricultural land quickly giving way to more natural steppe environments. The topography, combined with the prevailing wind patterns, can lead to localized air stagnation, particularly during periods of calm weather, impacting the dispersion of pollutants from both urban and agricultural sources. The city’s location inland, away from the immediate coastal breezes, means it is more susceptible to the accumulation of pollutants.

Hammam Dalaa’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle driven by meteorological factors. The dry season, spanning roughly from October to April, typically sees the highest pollution concentrations. During these months, temperature inversions are common, particularly in November and December, trapping pollutants close to the ground. These inversions occur when a layer of warm air sits above a layer of cooler air, preventing vertical mixing and leading to pollutant accumulation. Wind speeds are generally lower during this period, further hindering dispersion. Spring (March-May) brings a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and wind speeds increase, aiding in the dispersal of pollutants. However, dust storms originating from the Sahara can significantly degrade air quality during this transition period, particularly in March and April. Summer (June-August) is generally the cleanest period, characterized by higher temperatures, stronger winds, and more frequent convective mixing, which effectively ventilates the atmosphere. However, intense heat can exacerbate the effects of any existing pollutants on human health. Autumn (September-October) sees a return to more stable atmospheric conditions, with a gradual increase in pollution levels as the dry season approaches. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of temperature inversion or dust storms. Limiting outdoor exertion and avoiding areas with high traffic density are advisable. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration can also provide some protection.