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Skhira, a coastal town within the Sfax Governorate of Tunisia, occupies a strategically important position on the Mediterranean Sea. Located at approximately 34.3006° N, 10.0708° E, its geography is defined by a gently sloping coastal plain transitioning into the Sahel region, a vast agricultural belt crucial to Tunisia’s economy. The town’s elevation is relatively low, rarely exceeding 30 meters above sea level, which influences local wind patterns and atmospheric mixing. Skhira’s proximity to the Mediterranean significantly moderates temperatures, but also introduces marine influences on air quality, including salt spray and potential for coastal fog. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of olive groves, date palm plantations, and cereal fields, characteristic of the Tunisian Sahel. To the west lies the larger urban area of Sfax, a significant industrial and commercial hub, while eastward stretches a more rural, agricultural expanse. This urban–rural gradient means Skhira experiences a blend of agricultural emissions (dust from tilling, fertilizer use) and potential industrial pollutants carried by prevailing winds from Sfax. The town itself is relatively small, with a population of around 11,912, resulting in limited local industrial activity. However, its role as a fishing port and its connection to the broader Sfax region mean it is susceptible to regional air quality issues. The terrain’s flatness limits vertical mixing, potentially trapping pollutants under certain meteorological conditions, particularly during periods of calm winds and temperature inversions. The coastal location also makes it vulnerable to transboundary pollution from across the Mediterranean.

Skhira’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by Tunisia’s Mediterranean climate. The warm, dry summers (June-August) are generally characterized by stable atmospheric conditions and frequent high-pressure systems. This often leads to temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air sits above cooler air near the ground, suppressing vertical mixing and trapping pollutants. Agricultural activities, such as harvesting and tilling, contribute to increased particulate matter during these months. The intense solar radiation can also exacerbate photochemical smog formation, though this is less pronounced than in more densely populated areas. Autumn (September-November) brings a gradual shift, with increased wind speeds and more frequent rainfall, which helps to disperse pollutants. Winter (December-February) is typically the most favourable period for air quality, with cooler temperatures and more consistent wind patterns. However, occasional cold air masses can lead to fog formation, which, while visually striking, can also trap pollutants close to the ground. Spring (March-May) sees a resurgence of agricultural activity and increasing temperatures, leading to a gradual increase in particulate matter and ozone precursors. Dust storms originating from the Sahara Desert can also impact Skhira during spring, significantly degrading air quality. Sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor exertion during the summer months and be mindful of dust storm warnings in the spring. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can be beneficial throughout the year, particularly during periods of elevated pollution.