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Ouled Fayet, nestled within the Tipaza province of Algeria, occupies a geographically significant position along the Mediterranean coastline. Located at coordinates 36.7333° N, 2.9500° E, the city benefits from a moderate elevation, contributing to a generally temperate climate. The terrain is characterised by a blend of coastal plains and the foothills of the Tell Atlas mountains, creating a varied landscape. Ouled Fayet’s proximity to the Mediterranean Sea exerts a moderating influence on temperatures and introduces sea breezes, but also potential for humidity. The surrounding area is a mix of agricultural land, primarily focused on olive groves and vineyards, and increasingly, residential development linked to the growth of Tipaza city. While not a major industrial hub itself, Ouled Fayet is situated within a region experiencing industrial expansion, particularly around the port areas further east. This proximity, coupled with traffic from the coastal highway, contributes to localised air quality concerns. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural areas immediately bordering the city limits. Dust from agricultural activities and potential salt spray from the sea are key factors influencing the local atmospheric composition, impacting baseline particulate matter levels and potentially exacerbating respiratory issues. The city’s layout, typical of Algerian coastal towns, features a dense core expanding outwards, influencing pollutant dispersion patterns.

Ouled Fayet experiences a Mediterranean climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons heavily influencing air quality. Winter (December-February) brings increased rainfall, which can temporarily improve air quality by washing away particulate matter, but also leads to higher humidity and potential for fog, trapping pollutants near the ground. Calm conditions and temperature inversions are common, exacerbating localised pollution from domestic heating and vehicle emissions. Spring (March-May) sees a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and winds increase, dispersing pollutants. However, agricultural burning for land preparation can cause spikes in particulate matter. Summer (June-August) is typically dry and hot, with strong sea breezes offering some relief, but also increasing ozone formation due to high temperatures and sunlight. This is a period of generally better air quality, though dust from inland areas can be transported by winds. Autumn (September-November) is a transitional period, with decreasing temperatures and increasing rainfall. Harmattan winds, originating from the Sahara, can bring significant dust storms, dramatically worsening air quality. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during Harmattan events and periods of agricultural burning. Monitoring wind direction and local weather forecasts is crucial for planning outdoor activities.