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Ciudad de Ceuta, a Spanish exclave nestled on the North African coast, presents a unique geographic challenge regarding air quality. Situated at 35.8883° N, 5.3156° W, it occupies a strategic peninsula bordering Morocco, directly across the Strait of Gibraltar from Spain. The city’s terrain is predominantly hilly, with an average elevation of around 150 meters, rising to peaks offering panoramic views but also contributing to localized air stagnation. The surrounding landscape is a blend of Mediterranean scrubland and rocky outcrops, transitioning to more arid conditions further inland towards Morocco. This proximity to the African continent means Ceuta is susceptible to transboundary pollution events, particularly from industrial activity and agricultural practices in the surrounding region. The Strait of Gibraltar itself, a vital maritime route, introduces shipping emissions, a persistent source of particulate matter and sulfur dioxide. Ceuta’s urban character is compact and densely populated, with a historic core characterized by narrow, winding streets that can trap pollutants. While there are limited large-scale industrial zones within the city itself, the port facilities and associated logistics operations contribute to localized air pollution. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with the city quickly giving way to the natural landscape, though agricultural activity in the surrounding plains can release ammonia and other agricultural pollutants. The prevailing winds, often influenced by the Strait, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants, a factor heavily influencing air quality patterns.

Ceuta’s air quality exhibits a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by its Mediterranean climate and geographic location. Summers (June-August) are typically hot and dry, characterized by stable atmospheric conditions and frequent temperature inversions, particularly during the early morning hours. These inversions trap pollutants close to the ground, leading to periods of elevated particulate matter and ozone concentrations. The lack of significant rainfall during this period further exacerbates the issue, as there's minimal natural cleansing of the atmosphere. Autumn (September-November) brings a gradual shift, with increased wind speeds from the Atlantic and the onset of occasional rainfall, which helps to disperse pollutants. However, agricultural burning in the surrounding Moroccan regions can introduce significant smoke plumes, impacting air quality. Winter (December-February) generally sees improved air quality due to stronger winds and more frequent rainfall, although cold, still days can still lead to localized pollution episodes. Spring (March-May) is often the most pleasant season, with moderate temperatures and consistent winds, contributing to good air quality. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the summer months, particularly during periods of stagnant air. Avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during the early morning hours in summer is advisable. Increased vigilance regarding respiratory health is recommended throughout the year, with a focus on monitoring for any unusual symptoms. The influence of transboundary pollution necessitates awareness of regional air quality alerts and adherence to public health advisories.