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Comé, a coastal city in Benin’s Mono Department, occupies a geographically significant position along the Gulf of Guinea. Situated at coordinates 6.4000, 1.8833, the city’s terrain is generally flat, characteristic of the coastal plains of southern Benin. The elevation is minimal, contributing to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. Comé’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean exerts a strong influence on its climate and, consequently, its air quality. The surrounding landscape is a mix of coastal vegetation, lagoons, and increasingly, urban development. The city is a key port, handling significant maritime trade, and this activity generates localised emissions from shipping and associated logistics. Inland from Comé lies a predominantly agricultural zone, with small-scale farming and fishing being major economic activities. These agricultural practices, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to particulate matter pollution through land preparation and seasonal burning of vegetation. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with a rapid transition from densely populated areas near the port and market to more sparsely populated agricultural lands. This concentration of activity in a small area exacerbates air quality challenges, particularly during periods of stagnant air.

Comé experiences a tropical climate defined by distinct wet and dry seasons, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, typically from November to March, sees a build-up of pollutants due to reduced rainfall and increased dust from the Sahara, transported by Harmattan winds. This period often experiences lower wind speeds, leading to temperature inversions that trap pollutants near the ground. February and March are generally the months with the poorest air quality. The transition period, April-May, brings increasing humidity and sporadic rainfall, offering some relief, but also fostering mould growth which can affect respiratory health. The wet season, from June to October, provides the most significant improvement in air quality. Heavy rainfall effectively washes away particulate matter and dilutes gaseous pollutants. However, increased humidity can also contribute to the formation of photochemical smog in areas with high vehicle emissions. August and September, despite being the wettest months, can see localised pollution spikes from waste burning. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should exercise caution during the dry season and avoid prolonged outdoor activity when dust haze is visible. Monitoring local weather patterns is crucial for informed decision-making.