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Benfreha, nestled within the Oran State of Algeria, occupies a unique position on the Mediterranean coast, approximately 10 kilometers east of the bustling port city of Oran. Its coordinates, 35.6933° N, -0.4192° W, place it within a gently sloping coastal plain, transitioning gradually to the foothills of the Tell Atlas Mountains to the south. The surrounding landscape is a blend of agricultural land – primarily olive groves and citrus orchards – and increasingly, peri-urban development as Benfreha expands. The proximity to the Mediterranean Sea exerts a significant influence on the local climate and, consequently, air quality. Sea breezes, while generally beneficial in dispersing pollutants, can also carry moisture and contribute to fog formation, trapping emissions under certain atmospheric conditions. The city’s elevation, relatively low at around 20 meters above sea level, minimizes natural vertical mixing of air, potentially exacerbating ground-level pollution. Industrial activity in Oran, including petrochemical processing and port operations, represents a regional pollution source that can impact Benfreha’s air quality, particularly during periods of stagnant air. The urban–rural gradient is evident in the surrounding area, with Benfreha acting as a bridge between the dense urban core of Oran and the more rural agricultural zones further inland. This transitional zone experiences a complex interplay of urban and rural influences on air quality, including agricultural burning practices and vehicular emissions from connecting roadways.

Benfreha’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by its Mediterranean climate. The warm, dry summers (June-August) often see a build-up of pollutants due to reduced rainfall and increased solar radiation, which promotes photochemical smog formation. High temperatures also contribute to stagnant air conditions, hindering dispersion. The lack of significant rainfall during these months means particulate matter accumulates. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) generally offer improved air quality, with moderate temperatures and occasional rainfall helping to cleanse the atmosphere. However, spring can be susceptible to dust storms originating from the Sahara, significantly degrading air quality for short periods. Winter (December-February) presents a more complex scenario. While cooler temperatures can reduce photochemical reactions, frequent fog events, particularly in December and January, trap pollutants near the ground, leading to localized episodes of poor air quality. Temperature inversions, common during winter nights, further exacerbate this issue by preventing vertical mixing. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during periods of fog and temperature inversions, limiting outdoor exertion. Agricultural burning, a traditional practice in the surrounding areas, can also contribute to seasonal spikes in particulate matter, particularly during the transition periods between seasons. Outdoor activities are generally most favorable during the spring and autumn months, avoiding the extremes of summer heat and winter fog.