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Tarhzirt, nestled within the Béni Mellal-Khénifra region of Morocco, occupies a geographically significant position at approximately 32.43°N, -6.18°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 intensive agricultural activity, while vital to the regional economy, contributes to localized air quality concerns, particularly from pesticide drift and biomass burning during harvest seasons. The urban–rural gradient around Tarhzirt is relatively gradual, with small villages and agricultural settlements blending seamlessly into the city’s periphery. The elevation, around 550 meters above sea level, can contribute to temperature inversions during cooler months, trapping pollutants closer to the ground. While not directly adjacent to a major river, the city benefits from groundwater resources, supporting irrigation and influencing local humidity levels. The absence of large-scale industrial belts immediately surrounding Tarhzirt mitigates some industrial pollution risks, but transportation corridors connecting the city to larger urban centers like Béni Mellal do introduce vehicular emissions. The prevailing winds, generally from the west, play a crucial role in dispersing pollutants, though their effectiveness is variable depending on atmospheric stability.

Tarhzirt’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by its semi-arid climate and agricultural practices. The dry season, spanning roughly from April to October, typically sees lower overall pollution levels due to increased wind speeds and solar radiation, which aids in pollutant dispersion. However, agricultural burning, a common practice for clearing fields after harvest, can lead to significant spikes in particulate matter during late summer and early autumn (August-September). The cooler months (November-March) are often characterized by temperature inversions, particularly during periods of high-pressure systems. These inversions trap pollutants near the ground, potentially exacerbating air quality issues. Fog, more frequent during winter, further reduces dispersion. Spring (March-April) brings a gradual improvement in air quality as temperatures rise and winds increase, but dust storms originating from the Sahara can occasionally impact the city. During the wet season (October-November), rainfall helps to cleanse the atmosphere, temporarily reducing 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 exertion during these times and monitoring local air quality reports is advisable. The transition months of spring and autumn generally offer the most favourable conditions for outdoor activities, though vigilance regarding dust events remains important. Maintaining green spaces within the city and promoting sustainable agricultural practices are key to mitigating seasonal air quality fluctuations.