Andranomavo Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Andranomavo, a town nestled within the Boeny region of Madagascar, presents a unique geographic context influencing its air quality. Situated approximately 25km inland from the Mozambique Channel near Mahajanga, its coordinates (-16.5757, 45.5647) place it within a relatively flat coastal plain. The terrain is predominantly savanna, interspersed with mangrove forests closer to the coast and transitioning to drier deciduous forests further inland. The town’s elevation is low, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion of pollutants. Andranomavo’s urban character is largely defined by its role as a market town and transport hub, serving surrounding agricultural areas. These areas, focused on rice cultivation and subsistence farming, contribute to seasonal biomass burning, a significant source of particulate matter. The proximity to Mahajanga, a larger port city, means Andranomavo experiences some influence from regional transport emissions. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with a rapid transition from settled areas to agricultural land. Dust from unpaved roads and construction, combined with the seasonal burning, are key local factors impacting air quality. The prevailing winds, influenced by the southeast trade winds, play a crucial role in pollutant dispersal, though temperature inversions during calmer periods can trap pollutants near the ground.

Andranomavo experiences a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, roughly from May to October, is characterised by lower rainfall and increased dust levels. Agricultural burning for land preparation intensifies during this period, leading to peaks in particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). The drier air also means pollutants are less likely to be washed out by rain, resulting in prolonged periods of reduced air quality. November marks the transition, with sporadic rainfall offering temporary relief. The wet season, from November to April, generally brings improved air quality due to rainfall scavenging pollutants and suppressing dust. However, increased humidity can also foster mold growth, potentially exacerbating respiratory issues. February and March, the peak of the wet season, are typically the most favourable months for outdoor activity. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, can trap pollutants at ground level, worsening conditions locally. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly when agricultural burning is prevalent. Monitoring wind direction is also advisable, avoiding areas downwind from burning activities.