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Tanguiéta, nestled in the Atacora region of northern Benin, occupies a geographically significant position within a transitional landscape. Located at approximately 10.6167° N, 1.2667° E, the city sits at an elevation of around 225 meters (738 feet) above sea level, placing it within a gently undulating plateau region. This elevation, while not extreme, contributes to localized temperature inversions, particularly during the cooler dry season, which can trap pollutants closer to the ground. The surrounding landscape is characterized by a mosaic of savanna grasslands, interspersed with shea and mango trees, gradually transitioning into more rugged, rocky terrain further north towards the Pendjari National Park. Agriculture, primarily small-scale farming of maize, millet, and sorghum, dominates the rural areas surrounding Tanguiéta, and agricultural burning practices, though often traditional, can contribute to localized particulate matter. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city itself is a bustling market town and a regional hub for cashew processing, a key economic activity. This processing, while vital, can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter if not properly managed. While Tanguiéta lacks immediate proximity to major rivers or lakes, seasonal streams flow through the area, influencing local humidity and potentially affecting the dispersion of airborne pollutants. The city’s location, far from major industrial belts, means that long-range transport of pollutants is less of a concern than localized sources.

Tanguiéta experiences a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly influencing its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from November to March, is characterized by lower humidity, increased sunshine, and a higher frequency of temperature inversions. These inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air below, significantly impede vertical mixing, leading to a build-up of pollutants near the ground. Agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and crop residue disposal, intensifies during this period, releasing substantial amounts of smoke and particulate matter. Dust storms, driven by Harmattan winds originating from the Sahara, are also more frequent, further degrading air quality. The wet season, from April to October, brings increased rainfall and higher humidity, which naturally scavenges pollutants from the atmosphere, leading to a noticeable improvement in air quality. Frequent rainfall events wash away particulate matter and dilute gaseous pollutants. However, periods of intense rainfall can also lead to flooding, which can release mould spores and other allergens into the air. The months of January and February often experience the poorest air quality due to the combination of temperature inversions, agricultural burning, and dust intrusion. Conversely, July and August generally offer the best conditions for outdoor activities. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure and avoiding areas with visible smoke. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air purification can also be beneficial.