Bekoratsaka Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Bekoratsaka, a town within the Boeny region of Madagascar, sits approximately 30km inland from the Mozambique Channel, near the larger regional hub of Mahajanga. Located at -16.1083° latitude and 47.4914° longitude, the terrain is generally flat, characteristic of the coastal plains of northwestern Madagascar. The town’s elevation is low, contributing to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. Surrounding Bekoratsaka is a landscape dominated by savanna and scrubland, interspersed with pockets of deciduous forest. Agriculture, primarily rice cultivation and subsistence farming, forms the dominant land use in the immediate vicinity, with potential for seasonal burning contributing to particulate matter. While not a major industrial centre itself, Bekoratsaka’s proximity to Mahajanga, a port city with some industrial activity, means it can experience pollutant transport. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; the town is a concentrated settlement within a largely rural environment. This proximity to both agricultural practices and a larger urban centre creates a unique air quality profile. The prevailing winds, influenced by the southeast trade winds, play a crucial role in pollutant dispersal, though these can be variable. The coastal location also introduces the potential for salt spray and humidity to affect pollutant chemistry and deposition.

Bekoratsaka experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing its air quality. The wet season, roughly November to April, brings increased rainfall which effectively scrubs the air of particulate matter, leading to generally improved conditions. However, high humidity can also promote the formation of mould and allergens, impacting respiratory health. The dry season, May to October, is when air quality concerns peak. This is due to increased dust from agricultural activities, particularly land preparation and burning for new planting. The southeast trade winds, stronger during the dry season, can transport dust and smoke from inland areas, exacerbating pollution. Temperature inversions, common during cooler nights in the dry season, trap pollutants near the ground. August and September are typically the months with the poorest air quality. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during these periods. Conversely, the wetter months offer better conditions for outdoor exercise. Monitoring local fire activity is crucial during the transition periods between seasons, as uncontrolled burns can rapidly degrade air quality. Localised smoke from cooking fires also contributes to indoor and outdoor pollution year-round.