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Kélibia, a coastal city in the Nabeul Governorate of Tunisia, occupies a geographically significant position along the Mediterranean Sea. Situated at coordinates 36.8500, 11.1000, the city benefits from a relatively flat terrain, typical of the coastal plains of North Africa, with an elevation generally below 100 meters. This low-lying landscape contributes to potential issues with pollutant dispersion, particularly during temperature inversions. Kélibia’s urban character is a blend of traditional Tunisian architecture and modern development, reflecting its growth as a regional centre. The surrounding landscape is dominated by agricultural zones, particularly olive groves and citrus orchards, which, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to particulate matter pollution during harvest and processing. To the west lies a more pronounced rural gradient, transitioning into semi-arid steppe. The proximity to the Mediterranean Sea provides a moderating influence on temperatures, but also introduces sea salt aerosols into the air. While Kélibia isn’t heavily industrialized, the presence of smaller-scale industrial activity in the Nabeul region, known for pottery and ceramics, can contribute to localized air pollution. The prevailing winds, generally from the northeast, carry pollutants both from the sea and inland sources, impacting air quality within the city.

Kélibia experiences a Mediterranean climate, resulting in distinct seasonal air quality patterns. Summer (June-August) often sees relatively good air quality, driven by consistent sea breezes that disperse pollutants, though ozone levels can rise due to strong sunlight and high temperatures. However, heatwaves can exacerbate ground-level ozone formation. Autumn (September-November) brings a transition period; agricultural burning of crop residue following the harvest season significantly increases particulate matter concentrations, particularly in October and November. This is often coupled with calmer wind conditions. Winter (December-February) is generally the wettest season, with rainfall helping to scrub the air, but temperature inversions are common, trapping pollutants near the ground, especially during periods of high-pressure systems. January and February are often the months with the poorest air quality. Spring (March-May) sees a gradual improvement, with increasing temperatures and wind speeds, but dust storms originating from the Sahara Desert can occasionally impact air quality, particularly in March and April. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during autumn and winter months and monitor local conditions during Saharan dust events.