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Mahires, nestled within the Sfax Governorate of Tunisia (coordinates 34.5333, 10.5000), is a small urban centre exhibiting characteristics typical of Tunisia’s coastal plains. The city’s terrain is largely flat, transitioning gently inland towards rolling agricultural lands. Situated approximately 10km inland from the Mediterranean Sea, Mahires benefits from coastal breezes, but is also susceptible to humidity and salt spray. The surrounding region is dominated by olive groves and cereal farming, with some smaller-scale industrial activity concentrated closer to the larger city of Sfax, roughly 15km to the north. This proximity to Sfax is a key factor influencing Mahires’ air quality, as prevailing winds can carry pollutants from the larger urban and industrial centre. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; moving just a few kilometres from Mahires quickly leads to more open agricultural landscapes. The geological composition of the area is primarily sedimentary, contributing to dust particles in the air, particularly during drier periods. The relatively low elevation minimizes temperature inversions, but they can still occur, trapping pollutants near the ground. The city’s layout is compact, with a mix of residential and small commercial areas, influencing localized pollution hotspots.

Mahires experiences a Mediterranean climate, with distinct seasonal variations impacting air quality. Summer (June-August) often sees relatively cleaner air, driven by consistent north-easterly breezes from the Mediterranean, dispersing pollutants. However, high temperatures can promote ground-level ozone formation, particularly near agricultural areas using fertilizers. Autumn (September-November) brings a transition period, with decreasing wind speeds and the potential for stagnant air, leading to a build-up of particulate matter from agricultural activities like olive harvesting and burning of crop residue. Winter (December-February) is generally the period of poorest air quality. Reduced sunlight and temperature inversions trap pollutants, exacerbated by increased use of heating fuels, including wood and biomass, in residential areas. Fog can also contribute to pollutant concentration. Spring (March-May) sees improving conditions as temperatures rise and winds become more frequent, though dust storms originating from the Sahara Desert can occasionally impact air quality. Sensitive individuals – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during winter and periods of Saharan dust intrusion. Monitoring wind direction and avoiding peak agricultural burning times are also advisable.