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Ayt Mohamed, nestled within the Béni Mellal-Khénifra region of Morocco, occupies a geographically significant position at approximately 32.57° N, -6.98° W. The city’s terrain is characterized by a gently sloping landscape, transitioning from the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains to the fertile plains of the Tadla region. This location dictates a semi-arid climate, influenced by both the mountains and the proximity to the Atlantic coast, roughly 80 kilometers west. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive olive groves, citrus orchards, and cereal fields dominating the rural areas. This agricultural activity, while vital to the regional economy, contributes to localized air quality concerns, particularly from fertilizer use and seasonal burning practices. Ayt Mohamed itself exhibits a relatively compact urban footprint, reflecting its smaller population of around 23,531. The urban–rural gradient is gradual, with agricultural land quickly encroaching upon the city limits. The elevation, around 550 meters above sea level, can contribute to temperature inversions during cooler months, trapping pollutants closer to the ground. The absence of major industrial belts directly adjacent to Ayt Mohamed is a mitigating factor, though transportation corridors connecting the city to larger urban centers like Béni Mellal do introduce vehicular emissions. The relatively open terrain allows for some dispersion of pollutants, but the surrounding topography can also channel winds, creating localized areas of higher concentration, especially during periods of low wind speed.

Ayt Mohamed’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by its semi-arid climate and prevailing meteorological conditions. The dry season, spanning roughly from April to October, typically sees lower overall pollution levels due to increased wind speeds and higher temperatures which promote atmospheric mixing. However, this period is punctuated by episodes of agricultural burning, particularly during the harvest season (September-October), which can significantly degrade air quality locally. The cooler, wetter months (November-March) present a different challenge. Temperature inversions are more frequent during these months, trapping pollutants near the ground, especially during periods of calm weather and fog. These inversions, combined with reduced wind speeds, can lead to a noticeable increase in particulate matter and other pollutants. Dust storms, originating from the Sahara Desert, are also a recurring phenomenon, particularly during the spring months (March-April), impacting air quality across the region. During the summer months (June-August), high temperatures and intense solar radiation can exacerbate ozone formation, although this is generally less of a concern than particulate matter. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during periods of agricultural burning and temperature inversions, limiting outdoor activity and ensuring adequate ventilation. The shoulder seasons (April/May and October/November) often present the most variable air quality, requiring vigilance and awareness of local conditions.