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Milla’ab, nestled within the Drâa-Tafilalet region of Morocco, occupies a geographically significant position at approximately 31.47°N, -4.74°W. The city’s setting is deeply intertwined with the dramatic landscape of the Draa Valley, a fertile oasis carved by the Draa River, the longest river in Morocco. Milla’ab sits at an elevation of roughly 350 meters above sea level, contributing to a generally arid climate. The surrounding terrain is characterized by vast expanses of desert, punctuated by date palm groves and traditional kasbahs, a testament to the region’s historical reliance on agriculture and trade. The Draa River, though intermittent in its flow, provides a vital source of irrigation for the surrounding agricultural lands, primarily date cultivation and some cereal farming. This agricultural activity, while essential to the local economy, can contribute to localized air pollution through dust from tilling and the use of fertilizers. The urban–rural gradient around Milla’ab is relatively sharp; the city transitions quickly from built-up areas to the expansive desert and agricultural zones. The valley’s topography, with its surrounding hills and the river’s course, can influence local wind patterns and trap pollutants, particularly during periods of atmospheric stability. The proximity to larger industrial centers is limited, reducing the impact of heavy industrial emissions, but the reliance on traditional cooking methods using wood or charcoal in some households can contribute to localized particulate matter pollution. The overall regional context is one of a semi-arid environment heavily reliant on water resources and traditional agricultural practices, factors that shape the city’s air quality profile.

Milla’ab’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle dictated by its arid climate and prevailing meteorological conditions. The dry season, spanning roughly from October to April, generally sees clearer skies and lower humidity, but also heightened dust events. Strong, dry winds, particularly during the winter months (November-February), frequently sweep across the Draa Valley, carrying fine particulate matter from the surrounding desert and agricultural fields. These dust storms significantly degrade air quality, impacting visibility and respiratory health. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of winter, can trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the problem. Conversely, the warmer months (May-September) are characterized by higher temperatures and reduced wind speeds. While dust events are less frequent, stagnant air can lead to a build-up of pollutants from local sources, such as vehicle emissions and domestic cooking. The summer heat also promotes the formation of ground-level ozone, a respiratory irritant. Spring (March-April) and Autumn (September-October) offer the most favourable conditions, with moderate temperatures and more frequent wind dispersion. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during dust storm events in winter and avoid prolonged outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the summer day. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and air filtration is particularly important during these periods. The reliance on traditional cooking methods, especially in rural areas surrounding Milla’ab, contributes to indoor and outdoor air pollution, particularly during the cooler months when homes are sealed to conserve heat.