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Buea, nestled in the South-West Region of Cameroon at coordinates 4.1667, 9.2333, is a city dramatically shaped by its volcanic origins and proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. With a population of 131,325, Buea occupies a narrow coastal plain rising steeply towards Mount Cameroon, an active volcano dominating the landscape. This terrain significantly influences air quality; the slopes create localized wind patterns and trap pollutants in the valleys, particularly during temperature inversions. The city’s urban character is a blend of colonial-era architecture and rapidly expanding residential areas, reflecting its history as a former capital. Surrounding Buea are extensive agricultural zones, primarily smallholder farms cultivating cocoa, coffee, and plantains, contributing to seasonal biomass burning. Further inland, dense rainforest covers the volcanic slopes. The urban-rural gradient is sharp, transitioning quickly from relatively dense settlement to agricultural land and then to pristine forest. The coastal location brings humid air masses and influences rainfall patterns, but also exposes the city to potential long-range transport of marine aerosols. Industrial activity is limited, but increasing, concentrated around the port city of Limbe nearby, potentially impacting air quality through shipping emissions and associated industrial processes. The city’s elevation varies considerably, adding to the complexity of air circulation.

Buea experiences a distinct wet and dry season cycle, profoundly impacting air quality. The long wet season, roughly March to November, generally sees improved air quality due to rainfall scavenging particulate matter. However, increased humidity can foster mold growth, impacting respiratory health. Peak pollution typically occurs during the drier months of December to February, coinciding with increased biomass burning for agricultural practices and domestic heating. Harmattan winds, originating from the Sahara, can transport dust plumes, significantly elevating particulate matter concentrations. Temperature inversions, common in the valleys surrounding Buea, exacerbate pollution during these dry periods, trapping emissions near ground level. February and March are often the most challenging months for those with respiratory sensitivities. The prevailing winds, generally from the Atlantic, can offer some dispersion during the wet season. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly when visibility is reduced due to haze. Monitoring local conditions and staying indoors during peak pollution events is crucial. The transition periods between wet and dry seasons can also see fluctuating air quality.