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Temsamane, nestled in the Oriental province of Morocco, occupies a geographically significant position where the Middle Atlas mountains descend towards the Atlantic coast. Located at approximately 35.1167° latitude and -3.6333° longitude, the city sits at an elevation of around 650 meters (2,133 feet) above sea level, influencing local climate and air circulation patterns. The surrounding landscape is a blend of rolling hills, terraced agricultural fields, and dense cork oak forests, characteristic of the Moroccan transition zone between the arid interior and the coastal plains. This proximity to both mountainous terrain and the Atlantic Ocean creates a complex interplay of microclimates. To the west, the Atlantic exerts a moderating influence, bringing maritime air masses, while the eastward slopes of the Middle Atlas contribute to orographic lift and localized precipitation. The urban fabric of Temsamane is relatively compact, reflecting its historical role as a market town and agricultural hub. The city’s location within a fertile valley supports intensive agriculture, primarily focused on cereal crops and fruit orchards, which can contribute to seasonal particulate matter from agricultural practices. A gradual urban–rural gradient extends outwards, transitioning from built-up areas to agricultural land and then to forested slopes. While Temsamane isn't directly adjacent to major industrial belts, its regional position within Morocco means it can be affected by transboundary pollution events originating from larger industrial centers further inland. The topography, with its constrained valleys, can also trap pollutants under certain meteorological conditions, impacting local air quality.

Temsamane’s air quality experiences a distinct seasonal cycle largely dictated by meteorological patterns. 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 and photochemical degradation. However, this period can be punctuated by episodes of stagnant air, particularly during heatwaves when temperature inversions trap pollutants near the ground. Dust storms, originating from the Sahara Desert, are a recurring concern during the late spring and summer months (May-July), significantly elevating particulate matter concentrations. The wet season, from November to March, brings increased rainfall, which naturally helps to cleanse the atmosphere by removing particulate matter. However, periods of prolonged fog, common during the winter months, can lead to localized air quality degradation as moisture traps pollutants. The months of June and July often present the most challenging conditions due to a combination of heat, reduced wind, and Saharan dust incursions. Conversely, the period from December to February generally offers the best air quality, although fog can occasionally impede dispersion. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during dust storm events and periods of stagnant air, limiting outdoor exertion and considering the use of face masks. Agricultural burning, a practice sometimes employed during the transition periods between seasons, can also contribute to localized air pollution spikes.