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Tori-Cada, a small city in the Atlantique Department of Benin, occupies a low-lying coastal plain at approximately 6.5833°N latitude and 2.2000°E longitude. Its geography is fundamentally shaped by its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, just a few kilometers south, and the lagoon systems that interweave the coastline. The terrain is generally flat, characteristic of the broader coastal region of southern Benin, with minimal elevation changes. This flatness contributes to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. The city’s urban character is developing, transitioning from a primarily agricultural and fishing economy to include small-scale commerce and services. Surrounding Tori-Cada are extensive areas of agricultural land, primarily subsistence farming, and coastal wetlands. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural activity dominating immediately outside the city limits. While not a major industrial hub, the presence of small-scale processing of agricultural products and local artisanal activities contributes to localised emissions. The prevailing winds, typically from the Gulf of Guinea, can transport pollutants both onshore and along the coast, impacting air quality. The lack of significant topographical features hinders the flushing of pollutants, making Tori-Cada susceptible to air stagnation events, particularly during calmer weather conditions. This coastal location also means potential for salt spray and humidity to influence pollutant chemistry.

Tori-Cada experiences a tropical climate defined by distinct wet and dry seasons, heavily influencing air quality. The dry season, spanning November to March, is characterised by the Harmattan wind, bringing dry, dusty air from the Sahara Desert. This leads to increased particulate matter concentrations, impacting respiratory health. January and February are typically the months with the poorest air quality due to this influx of Saharan dust. The transition period, March to April, sees increasing humidity and occasional rainfall, offering temporary relief. The wet season, from May to October, brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity. While rainfall helps to wash away pollutants, the increased moisture can also promote the formation of mould and exacerbate respiratory issues. August and September, the peak of the rainy season, generally experience better air quality due to the cleansing effect of precipitation. However, stagnant air masses can still occur during breaks in the rainfall. Temperature inversions, though less frequent than in temperate climates, can trap pollutants near the ground during the calmer periods of both seasons. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the Harmattan season and periods of stagnant air, regardless of the season. Monitoring local weather patterns is crucial for anticipating air quality fluctuations.