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Tchaourou, nestled within the Borgou State of Benin, occupies a geographically significant position in the country’s north-central region. Located at approximately 8.8833° latitude and 2.6000° longitude, the city’s terrain is characterized by a gently undulating landscape, transitioning from the wooded savannas of the north to the more fertile plains towards the south. The elevation is relatively modest, averaging around 250-350 meters above sea level, which influences local air circulation patterns. Tchaourou sits within a transitional zone, bordering both agricultural lands and areas of denser vegetation, creating a complex interplay of land use and potential pollution sources. The surrounding landscape is dominated by agricultural fields – primarily cultivating cotton, maize, and groundnuts – and interspersed with shea trees, a vital resource for the local economy. This agricultural activity, particularly during harvesting and processing seasons, contributes to particulate matter in the air. While Tchaourou lacks immediate proximity to major rivers or lakes, it benefits from seasonal rainfall, which can temporarily cleanse the atmosphere. The urban–rural gradient around Tchaourou is gradual, with smaller villages and agricultural settlements blending seamlessly into the city’s periphery. There are no major industrial belts directly adjacent to Tchaourou, but regional trade routes pass through, potentially introducing pollutants from vehicles and transported goods. The city’s location within a savanna climate zone, coupled with its terrain, dictates how pollutants disperse and accumulate, impacting local air quality.

Tchaourou experiences a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly influencing its air quality profile. The dry season, typically spanning from November to March, presents the most challenging period. Reduced rainfall and lower humidity lead to increased dust levels, originating from agricultural fields and unpaved roads. The lack of precipitation means fewer opportunities for atmospheric cleansing, allowing particulate matter to accumulate. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of this season, trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the situation. The Harmattan wind, a dry, dusty trade wind blowing from the Sahara, frequently impacts Tchaourou during this period, carrying significant amounts of dust and sand, further degrading air quality. Conversely, the wet season (April to October) brings relief. Frequent rainfall effectively washes pollutants from the atmosphere, significantly improving air quality. Higher humidity also helps to settle dust particles. However, agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and crop residue disposal, can temporarily elevate pollution levels during the transition periods between seasons. The months of February and March often experience the poorest air quality due to the combination of Harmattan winds and agricultural activities. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor exposure and wearing masks when necessary. During the wet season, while generally cleaner, vigilance regarding smoke from agricultural burning remains important.