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Bou Merdès, a coastal municipality within the Mahdia Governorate of Tunisia, occupies a geographically significant position along the Mediterranean Sea at coordinates 35.4500° N, 10.7333° E. The city’s terrain is relatively flat, typical of the eastern Tunisian coastline, with a gentle slope inland. This low elevation, combined with its direct exposure to the sea, influences local weather patterns and air circulation. Bou Merdès is situated within a region characterized by a blend of agricultural land – primarily olive groves and cereal crops – and small-scale industrial activity concentrated around Mahdia city itself, approximately 15km to the north. The urban-rural gradient is fairly sharp; moving inland quickly transitions from the denser settlement of Bou Merdès to more dispersed agricultural landscapes. The proximity to the Mediterranean provides a moderating influence on temperatures, but also facilitates the transport of pollutants from both marine sources and potentially from larger industrial centres further along the coast. Prevailing winds, generally from the northwest, carry maritime air masses, which can either dilute or concentrate pollutants depending on atmospheric conditions. The city’s location within a coastal plain limits natural dispersion, potentially exacerbating localised pollution events. Understanding these geographical factors is crucial for assessing and mitigating air quality challenges in Bou Merdès.

Bou Merdès experiences a Mediterranean climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons heavily influencing air quality. Winter (December-February) brings increased rainfall, which can temporarily improve air quality by washing away particulate matter, but also leads to higher humidity and potential for fog, trapping pollutants near the ground. Calm conditions and temperature inversions are common during these months, concentrating emissions from residential heating and limited industrial sources. Spring (March-May) sees a gradual improvement in air quality as temperatures rise and winds become more frequent, dispersing pollutants. However, agricultural activities, including burning of agricultural waste, can contribute to localised spikes in particulate matter. Summer (June-August) is typically the driest and clearest period, with strong sea breezes providing good ventilation and diluting pollutants. However, increased tourism and associated vehicle traffic can lead to higher levels of nitrogen oxides. Autumn (September-November) is a transitional period, with decreasing temperatures and increasing rainfall. Harmattan winds, originating from the Sahara, can occasionally bring dust storms, significantly degrading air quality. Sensitive individuals – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should be particularly cautious during Harmattan events and periods of temperature inversion in winter. Avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during these times is advisable.