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Angara-Débou, nestled within the Atacora region of northern Benin (coordinates 11.3289, 3.0406), occupies a geographically significant position at the edge of the Pendjari National Park, a biodiversity hotspot. The town’s terrain is characterized by undulating hills and valleys, typical of the Sahelian transition zone, with elevations ranging from approximately 250 to 450 meters above sea level. This topography influences local air circulation patterns; valleys can trap pollutants, while higher elevations experience greater dispersion. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of savanna grasslands, interspersed with acacia woodlands and small-scale agricultural plots, primarily cultivating millet, sorghum, and maize. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp, with Angara-Débou serving as a market town and administrative center for the surrounding rural communities. While not directly adjacent to major rivers, the area receives seasonal rainfall, contributing to humidity levels that can affect particulate matter deposition. There are no significant industrial belts immediately bordering Angara-Débou; however, the town’s role as a regional hub means it experiences vehicular traffic from surrounding villages and towns. Agricultural practices, including burning of vegetation after harvest, represent a localized source of air pollutants, particularly during the dry season. The proximity to Pendjari National Park, while offering ecological benefits, also means occasional smoke from controlled burns within the park can impact air quality, though typically at a lower intensity than agricultural burning. The town’s location within a transitional climate zone means it is susceptible to both dry, dusty conditions and periods of higher humidity, both of which influence pollutant behavior.

Angara-Débou’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by its tropical savanna climate. The dry season, spanning roughly November to March, presents the most significant air quality challenges. Characterized by minimal rainfall and persistent sunshine, this period sees a build-up of dust originating from the Sahara Desert, frequently transported by the Harmattan winds. These winds, often carrying fine particulate matter, can significantly reduce visibility and exacerbate respiratory issues. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of December and January, trap pollutants close to the ground, further degrading air quality. Agricultural burning, a traditional practice for land clearing and residue disposal, intensifies during this time, releasing smoke and other pollutants. The wet season, from April to October, brings relief as rainfall washes away accumulated dust and dilutes pollutants. However, periods of intense rainfall can also lead to increased humidity, which can trap certain pollutants, particularly gaseous ones. Fog, though infrequent, can occur during the transition months, further hindering pollutant dispersion. Outdoor activities are generally best enjoyed during the wet season, particularly from June to September, when rainfall is more consistent. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure and wearing appropriate masks when dust levels are high. The transition months (April/May and October/November) can be unpredictable, with fluctuating humidity and occasional dust events, requiring vigilance and adaptive behavior.