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Al Maḩwīt, situated in the Al Maḩwīt state of Yemen (coordinates 15.4694° N, 43.5453° E), occupies a geographically complex position within the country’s western highlands. The city’s terrain is characterized by undulating hills and valleys, a consequence of the region’s tectonic history and subsequent erosion. Elevation plays a significant role; Al Maḩwīt sits at a moderate altitude, influencing both temperature and atmospheric stability. The surrounding landscape is predominantly rural, a patchwork of agricultural fields and scattered settlements, reflecting Yemen’s reliance on subsistence farming. This proximity to agricultural zones introduces potential sources of air pollution, particularly from burning agricultural waste and the use of fertilizers. While not directly adjacent to major bodies of water, the region receives seasonal rainfall, contributing to humidity levels and influencing atmospheric mixing. The urban–rural gradient around Al Maḩwīt is gradual, with the city acting as a regional hub for the surrounding agricultural communities. There are no major industrial belts immediately bordering the city, however, the broader Yemeni economy relies on some processing of agricultural products, and potential emissions from these activities could be transported to Al Maḩwīt via prevailing winds. The city’s location within a valley can exacerbate air quality issues, as topography can trap pollutants and limit dispersion, especially during periods of stable atmospheric conditions. The overall geographic setting contributes to a unique microclimate that significantly impacts local air quality patterns.

Al Maḩwīt experiences a distinct wet and dry season pattern, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from October to May, is characterized by lower rainfall and increased temperatures. This period often sees a build-up of pollutants due to reduced atmospheric cleansing through precipitation. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near the ground, leading to periods of stagnant air and potentially elevated concentrations of particulate matter. Agricultural burning, a traditional practice for land clearing and waste disposal, intensifies during this time, further contributing to air pollution. The months of March and April are particularly concerning due to a combination of these factors. Conversely, the wet season (June to September) brings more frequent rainfall, which naturally washes pollutants from the atmosphere, leading to improved air quality. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased humidity and fog, which, while reducing visibility, can also trap pollutants in localized areas. Stronger winds associated with monsoon activity during the wet season generally promote better dispersion, but localized valleys can still experience poor air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activity during peak pollution periods, typically in the mornings. During the wet season, while overall air quality is generally better, periods of heavy fog should still be approached with awareness of potential localized pollution pockets.