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Ghouazi, nestled within the Fès-Meknès region of Morocco, occupies a geographically significant position at approximately 34.4667° N, -5.3000° W. The city’s terrain is characterized by gently rolling hills, typical of the Middle Atlas foothills, with an elevation of around 600 meters above sea level. This location places Ghouazi within a transitional zone between the fertile plains of the Saïs region and the more rugged mountainous interior. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of agricultural fields – primarily olive groves and cereal crops – interspersed with scattered woodlands and traditional Moroccan villages. The proximity to Fès, a major urban center and industrial hub, is a crucial factor influencing Ghouazi’s air quality. While Ghouazi itself is a relatively small settlement with a population of around 16,405, it experiences the indirect impacts of Fès’s industrial activity and vehicular traffic. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city transitions quickly into agricultural land, limiting the potential for extensive urban sprawl and associated pollution. The absence of major rivers or lakes within immediate proximity means that natural air purification processes via water bodies are minimal. Prevailing winds generally flow from the northwest, carrying potential pollutants from Fès and the surrounding agricultural areas towards Ghouazi, particularly during periods of lower wind speed. The topography, with its gentle slopes, can also contribute to localized air stagnation, especially during temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground.

Ghouazi’s air quality exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by Morocco’s Mediterranean climate. The dry season, spanning roughly from April to October, generally sees lower overall pollution levels due to increased wind speeds and solar radiation, which aids in pollutant dispersion and photochemical breakdown. However, dust storms, common during the spring months (April-May), can significantly degrade air quality, introducing particulate matter from the Sahara Desert. Summer (June-August) is typically characterized by high temperatures and frequent temperature inversions, particularly during the early morning hours. These inversions trap pollutants close to the ground, potentially leading to localized episodes of poorer air quality. The wet season, from November to March, brings cooler temperatures and increased rainfall, which helps to cleanse the atmosphere by removing particulate matter. However, agricultural burning practices, often employed to clear fields after harvest, can contribute to localized smoke pollution during this period, especially in November and December. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during periods of temperature inversions and dust storms. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wetter months and when wind speeds are higher. The transition months of March and October present a mixed picture, with potential for both dust events and improved air quality as rainfall increases.