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Diébougou, nestled in the Sud-Ouest region of Burkina Faso, occupies a geographically significant position within the Sahelian transition zone. Located at approximately 10.9667° latitude and -3.2500° longitude, the city’s terrain is predominantly characterized by gently undulating plains, typical of the wider Sahel landscape. Elevation averages around 250-300 meters above sea level, contributing to a relatively stable atmospheric layer, though susceptible to seasonal shifts. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of savanna grasslands, interspersed with acacia woodlands and sparse agricultural plots, reflecting the region’s semi-arid climate. Diébougou’s proximity to the Léna River, though not directly adjacent, influences local humidity and microclimates, particularly during the rainy season. The urban–rural gradient is sharp; the city itself is a modest settlement, quickly giving way to extensive agricultural lands and pastoral areas. While Diébougou lacks major industrial belts, the surrounding region supports small-scale farming and livestock rearing, which can contribute to localized air quality concerns, particularly from burning agricultural waste and traditional cooking methods. The city’s location within the Sahel means it’s highly vulnerable to desertification and dust storms originating from the Sahara, a significant factor impacting air quality, especially during the dry season. The prevailing winds, generally from the north during the dry season, carry these dust particles, impacting visibility and respiratory health. The relatively flat terrain limits dispersion of pollutants, potentially leading to localized concentrations.

Diébougou’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by its tropical savanna climate. The dry season, spanning roughly November to May, presents the most significant air quality challenges. Characterized by minimal rainfall and consistently high temperatures, this period is prone to frequent dust intrusions from the Sahara Desert. Strong, northerly winds exacerbate this issue, carrying fine particulate matter (PM) over considerable distances, reducing visibility and impacting respiratory health. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, can trap pollutants near the ground, further worsening conditions. The months of February and March often experience peak dust events. Conversely, the rainy season (June to October) brings a period of relative improvement. Increased rainfall effectively ‘washes’ pollutants from the atmosphere, and higher humidity can help to settle dust particles. However, the rainy season isn't entirely benign; burning agricultural residues after the harvest (typically in September and October) can generate significant smoke pollution, impacting local air quality. Fog, though infrequent, can also trap pollutants during cooler mornings. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activities during peak dust events. During the burning season, avoiding areas with heavy smoke is crucial. Maintaining good hydration and using appropriate respiratory protection (masks) can mitigate some of the adverse effects. The transition months (May and November) often present unpredictable air quality, influenced by shifting wind patterns and varying levels of rainfall.