Kokri Air Quality Index (AQI)

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Kokri, nestled within the Ségou Region of Mali, occupies a geographically significant position along the Niger River’s floodplain. Located at approximately 13.9606° latitude and -5.5153° longitude, the town’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Sahelian zone. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of fertile agricultural lands, dominated by cotton and cereal crops, interspersed with savanna grasslands and the meandering Niger River itself. This proximity to the river, while providing vital irrigation and transportation routes, also introduces potential sources of localized air pollution from agricultural practices and occasional riverine events. Kokri’s elevation is relatively low, contributing to a tendency for stagnant air conditions, particularly during the dry season. The urban character is that of a small, developing town, with a predominantly rural-agricultural hinterland. The urban–rural gradient is gradual, with agricultural activities extending close to the town’s periphery. There are no major industrial belts immediately adjacent to Kokri; however, regional agricultural processing centers, potentially involving burning and dust generation, exist within a 50-kilometer radius. The prevailing winds are generally easterly, influenced by the Harmattan during the dry season, which can transport dust and particulate matter from the Sahara. The flat topography and limited natural barriers exacerbate the impact of these winds, allowing pollutants to spread readily across the town and surrounding areas. The Sahelian climate, with its distinct wet and dry seasons, significantly influences the regional air quality dynamics.

Kokri’s air quality follows a predictable seasonal pattern dictated by its tropical savanna climate. The wet season, typically spanning from June to September, brings relief from dust and particulate matter as rainfall washes pollutants from the atmosphere and vegetation flourishes, acting as a natural filter. However, agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and crop residue disposal, can contribute to localized spikes in smoke and carbon monoxide during this period. The dry season, from October to May, presents a more challenging air quality scenario. The Harmattan wind, a dry and dusty trade wind originating from the Sahara, frequently impacts Kokri, carrying significant amounts of mineral dust and particulate matter. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler months (December-February), trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the problem. Fog, particularly in the early morning hours during the cooler months, further reduces air dispersion. Outdoor activity is generally best avoided during the Harmattan season (January-March) due to the elevated dust levels, which can aggravate respiratory conditions. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory illnesses, should take extra precautions during these periods, such as wearing masks and limiting outdoor exposure. The transition months of May and November see a gradual shift in air quality as the wet and dry seasons alternate, with fluctuating levels of dust and humidity. Careful monitoring of local conditions is advised throughout the year, with particular attention paid to agricultural burning practices and Harmattan wind patterns.