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Zouerate, nestled within the Adrar region of Mauritania, presents a unique urban geography shaped by its location within the vast Sahara Desert. Situated at approximately 22.73°N, 12.47°W, the city’s coordinates place it in a hyper-arid zone, characterized by undulating sand dunes and rocky plateaus. The surrounding landscape is overwhelmingly desert, with sparse vegetation limited to drought-resistant shrubs and occasional oases fed by subterranean water sources. Elevation averages around 780 meters above sea level, contributing to a generally dry climate and significant diurnal temperature variations. Zouerate’s urban character is defined by its historical role as a crucial trading post and a center for the extraction and processing of lithium, a relatively recent industrial development. The city’s layout reflects this dual heritage, with older, traditional neighborhoods interspersed with more modern industrial zones. The urban–rural gradient is stark; the city abruptly transitions into the expansive desert, with nomadic communities and scattered settlements marking the periphery. The absence of major surface water bodies, beyond occasional ephemeral streams after rare rainfall events, significantly impacts local humidity and influences atmospheric stability. The proximity to lithium mining operations, while economically vital, introduces localized sources of particulate matter and potentially other pollutants. The regional position, far from major coastal areas, limits the influence of maritime breezes, often resulting in stagnant air conditions, particularly during periods of calm weather. This geographical isolation and arid climate are key factors influencing Zouerate’s air quality profile.

Zouerate’s air quality is inextricably linked to its harsh desert climate, exhibiting a distinct seasonal pattern driven by meteorological factors. The year is broadly divided into a hot, dry season and a slightly cooler, marginally wetter season. During the hot season (roughly May to October), intense solar radiation and minimal rainfall create stable atmospheric conditions. Temperature inversions are common, trapping pollutants close to the ground, particularly those emitted from the lithium processing plants and vehicle emissions. Wind speeds are often low, further exacerbating this stagnation. Dust storms, a frequent occurrence, significantly degrade air quality, increasing particulate matter concentrations and reducing visibility. The cooler, wetter season (November to April) brings slightly more frequent, though still infrequent, rainfall, which can temporarily wash pollutants from the atmosphere. However, the humidity remains low, and fog events, while rare, can trap pollutants in localized areas. The months of June to August are generally the most challenging for air quality, with persistent heat, low wind speeds, and frequent dust storms. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during these periods. Even during the slightly more favourable months of November to March, caution is advised, particularly during periods of calm weather or when dust storms are predicted. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration is crucial year-round, but especially during periods of elevated pollution. Protective measures such as wearing masks during dust events are also recommended.