Geography and Environment

Geography and Environment of Western Sahara

Terrain, climate, natural resources, hazards, and environmental conditions of Western Sahara.

Terrain: mostly low, flat desert with large areas of rocky or sandy surfaces rising to small mountains in south and northeast
Climate: hot, dry desert; rain is rare; cold offshore air currents produce fog and heavy dew
Weather Patterns: http://voap.weather.com/weather/oap/WIXX0001?template=TRVLH&par=1003114983&unit=0&key=5b85ae1d85877a1b34827fba743e2133
Highest Point: 463 — unnamed location 463 m
Lowest Point: -55 — Sebjet Tah -55 m

Natural Resources: Phosphates, iron ore, and fish. Western Sahara holds some of the world's largest phosphate reserves, particularly at Bou Craa, which remains one of the most significant phosphate deposits globally. The territory also has potential offshore oil and natural gas reserves, though these remain largely unexplored and undeveloped. Rich Atlantic coastal waters provide abundant fishing resources, making fisheries an economically important natural asset.
Natural Hazards: hot, dry, dust/sand-laden sirocco wind can occur during winter and spring; widespread harmattan haze exists 60% of time, often severely restricting visibility

Detailed geography