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Tarhūnah, nestled within the Ţarābulus Governorate of Libya, occupies a strategically important position approximately 70 kilometers southeast of Tripoli, the nation's capital. Its coordinates, 32.4339° N, 13.6344° E, place it within a region characterized by undulating hills and plains transitioning into the Sahara Desert. The city’s terrain is moderately elevated, rising from roughly 300 meters above sea level, contributing to localized microclimates and influencing air circulation patterns. Surrounding Tarhūnah is a landscape dominated by arid scrubland and rocky outcrops, gradually giving way to more expansive desert terrain further east. While not directly adjacent to a major body of water, the proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, albeit distant, still exerts a moderating influence on regional weather patterns. Historically, the area has supported agricultural activity, particularly olive cultivation and date farming, though these zones are increasingly interspersed with more modern agricultural practices. The urban–rural gradient around Tarhūnah is relatively sharp; the city itself is compact, with a clear delineation between built-up areas and the surrounding agricultural and desert landscapes. This gradient impacts air quality, as agricultural activities can contribute to particulate matter, while the desert environment can exacerbate dust storms. The city’s location along historical trade routes has also led to some industrial development, though it remains comparatively limited compared to Tripoli, meaning industrial emissions are a less dominant factor in overall air quality, though still present. The topography and prevailing winds play a crucial role in dispersing or trapping pollutants within the Tarhūnah basin.

Tarhūnah’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by its Mediterranean climate and the influence of the Sahara Desert. The dry summer months (June-August) are typically characterized by high temperatures and minimal rainfall, leading to stagnant air conditions. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, are common, preventing the vertical dispersion of pollutants. This period often sees an increase in particulate matter, primarily from windblown dust originating from the surrounding desert. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer more moderate temperatures and increased wind activity, generally improving air quality as pollutants are dispersed. However, spring can also bring occasional dust storms, temporarily degrading air quality. Winter (December-February) is the coolest and wettest period, with occasional rainfall helping to cleanse the atmosphere. Fog, particularly in the mornings, can trap pollutants close to the ground, creating localized pockets of poor air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the summer months, limiting outdoor activity during peak heat and dust storm events. During the spring and autumn, monitoring local weather forecasts for dust storm warnings is advisable. While winter generally offers better air quality, the potential for fog-related pollution should still be considered. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration can provide an additional layer of protection throughout the year, especially during periods of elevated dust or stagnant air.