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Sidi Bennour, nestled within the Casablanca-Settat region of Morocco, occupies a geographically significant position in the country’s central plains. Located at approximately 32.65°N, 8.43°W, the city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the fertile Saïs Plain, a region historically vital for agriculture. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of arable land, punctuated by olive groves and cereal fields, reflecting the area’s strong agricultural heritage. Sidi Bennour sits relatively close to the Oum Er-Rbia River, though the river's influence on the immediate urban environment is limited due to its meandering course and distance from the city center. The elevation is low, generally below 100 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate air quality issues by limiting atmospheric dispersion. While not directly coastal, the proximity to the Atlantic Ocean (approximately 60km) introduces a maritime influence, impacting humidity and wind patterns. The urban–rural gradient transitions rapidly around Sidi Bennour; the city itself is a relatively small urban center, quickly giving way to agricultural lands and smaller villages. Further afield, the plains gradually rise towards the Middle Atlas mountains to the east, influencing regional weather systems. The absence of significant industrial belts directly adjacent to Sidi Bennour is a mitigating factor, though agricultural practices, including fertilizer use and seasonal burning, can contribute to localized air pollution. The city’s location within a broad, relatively sheltered plain can also lead to stagnant air conditions, particularly during periods of low wind speed, hindering the natural dispersal of pollutants.

Sidi Bennour experiences a Mediterranean climate, dictating a distinct seasonal pattern in air quality. The dry season, spanning roughly from April to October, typically sees the highest pollution concerns. During these months, high temperatures and reduced rainfall contribute to the accumulation of particulate matter, often stemming from agricultural activities like field preparation and, occasionally, controlled burns. The lack of significant rainfall means there's less natural cleansing of the atmosphere. Summer (July-August) can be particularly challenging, with intense heat leading to temperature inversions – a meteorological phenomenon where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, preventing pollutants from rising and dispersing. Conversely, the wet season (November to March) generally brings improved air quality. Rainfall effectively washes pollutants from the atmosphere, and increased wind speeds associated with winter storms help to disperse them. However, periods of fog, common during the cooler months, can temporarily trap pollutants, creating localized pockets of poor air quality. Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) represent transitional periods with moderate air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of high heat or stagnant air. Limiting outdoor exertion during midday and avoiding areas with visible smoke are advisable. Agricultural workers should be mindful of dust exposure and utilize appropriate protective equipment.