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Péhonko, nestled within the Atacora Department of Benin, occupies a geographically significant position in the country’s northwest. Located at coordinates 10.2283° N, 2.0019° E, the city is characterized by a gently undulating terrain typical of the Atacora Mountains foothills. The landscape surrounding Péhonko is predominantly savannah, interspersed with patches of gallery forest along seasonal watercourses. The elevation, while not extreme, contributes to localized temperature variations and influences air circulation patterns. Péhonko isn’t directly adjacent to a major body of water, though smaller rivers and streams provide vital resources for agriculture. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; Péhonko serves as a regional market centre for surrounding agricultural communities. This means a significant influx of traffic, particularly during harvest seasons, and associated dust from unpaved roads. While large-scale industry is limited within Péhonko itself, the surrounding areas support small-scale processing of agricultural products like cotton and shea nuts, contributing to localized particulate matter emissions. The prevailing winds, influenced by the Harmattan from the Sahara, can transport dust and sand southward, impacting air quality, particularly during the dry season. The city’s growth is largely organic, leading to a mix of traditional housing and more modern construction, with implications for ventilation and pollutant dispersion.

Péhonko experiences a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly influencing its air quality. The dry season, roughly November to April, is characterized by the Harmattan winds bringing Saharan dust, significantly elevating particulate matter concentrations. This period sees the poorest air quality, exacerbated by agricultural burning to prepare fields for the next planting season. January and February are typically the months with the most noticeable dust haze. The transition period, April-May, brings increased instability and localized dust storms. The wet season, from May to October, offers a reprieve. Rainfall effectively washes away particulate matter, leading to cleaner air. However, increased humidity can promote mold growth indoors, impacting respiratory health. August and September, the peak of the rainy season, generally offer the best air quality. Temperature inversions, though less common than in temperate climates, can occur during the cooler nights of the dry season, trapping pollutants near the ground. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season and take precautions during periods of heavy dust. Monitoring local weather patterns and avoiding strenuous activity on dusty days is crucial for maintaining respiratory health.