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At Tawāhī, nestled in the ‘Adan Governorate of Yemen, occupies a challenging geographic position. Located at approximately 12.7833°N, 44.9833°E, the city is situated on the coastal plain of the Gulf of Aden, a crucial maritime trade route. The terrain is predominantly flat, transitioning to rugged highlands further inland. This coastal location exposes At Tawāhī to both maritime influences and the potential for dust storms originating from the Arabian Peninsula’s interior deserts. The city’s proximity to the Gulf of Aden provides some degree of atmospheric mixing, but also means it’s susceptible to humidity and salt spray. While not heavily industrialized itself, At Tawāhī serves as a logistical hub for goods moving through the port of Aden, contributing to localized traffic-related emissions. Surrounding the urban core are areas of sparse vegetation and agricultural land, with a noticeable urban-rural gradient as one moves away from the coast. The prevailing winds, often influenced by the monsoon patterns, play a significant role in dispersing – or concentrating – pollutants. The limited natural ventilation due to the surrounding topography can exacerbate pollution episodes, particularly during periods of calm weather. The city’s growth, coupled with limited infrastructure, further compounds these challenges, impacting overall air quality.

Air quality in At Tawāhī experiences distinct seasonal variations. The hotter months, roughly April through September, often see a deterioration in air quality due to increased vehicle emissions from air conditioning use and the prevalence of dust storms sweeping in from the interior. High temperatures also promote the formation of ground-level ozone. October and November bring a slight improvement as temperatures moderate and winds shift, offering some relief. The winter months, December to February, are generally the most favourable for air quality, with cooler temperatures and increased rainfall helping to suppress dust and wash pollutants from the atmosphere. However, temperature inversions can still occur, trapping pollutants near the ground. March sees a transition period with increasing temperatures and the potential for dust. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should be particularly cautious during the hotter, dustier months of May through August. Avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during peak heat and dust events is advisable. Monitoring local conditions and staying indoors when pollution levels are elevated is crucial for protecting respiratory health. The monsoon season, though bringing some cleansing rain, can also contribute to humidity and mold growth, impacting indoor air quality.