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Massakory, nestled within the Hadjer-Lamis region of Chad (13.0000° N, 15.7333° E), occupies a geographically significant position at the edge of the Chari-Logone floodplain. The city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Sahelian landscape, with gentle undulations reflecting the alluvial deposits left by seasonal flooding. Elevation is relatively low, averaging around 350 meters above sea level, contributing to a stable atmospheric layer that can, under certain conditions, trap pollutants. Massakory’s location near the Chari River, though providing a vital water source, also influences local air quality; riverine breezes can disperse pollutants but also carry moisture, potentially exacerbating particulate matter issues. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of savanna grasslands and sparse acacia woodlands, interspersed with agricultural fields practicing subsistence farming, primarily millet and sorghum. This agricultural activity, particularly during the dry season when fields are burned for land preparation, introduces significant particulate matter into the atmosphere. The urban–rural gradient around Massakory is gradual, with small villages and nomadic pastoralist communities blending into the wider savanna. There are no major industrial belts immediately adjacent to Massakory, but the regional capital, Abeche, lies approximately 150km to the northeast, and occasional transport of goods from and to Abeche contributes to vehicle emissions. The flat topography and limited natural barriers mean that pollutants, once released, can spread relatively easily across the surrounding area, impacting air quality for a wider region.

Massakory’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s tropical wet and dry climate. The dry season, spanning roughly November to May, presents the most significant air quality challenges. During these months, reduced rainfall and consistently high temperatures lead to lower atmospheric moisture, hindering the natural cleansing effect of precipitation. Wind speeds are often light, creating conditions conducive to temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, preventing vertical dispersion of pollutants. Agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and crop residue removal, intensifies during this period, releasing substantial amounts of smoke and particulate matter. Dust storms, characteristic of the Sahel, are also more frequent, further degrading air quality. The wet season, from June to October, brings relief as increased rainfall washes pollutants from the atmosphere and higher humidity helps to settle particulate matter. However, periods of intense rainfall can also lead to flooding, which can temporarily release mould spores and other allergens. The months of February and March are typically the most challenging for air quality due to a combination of agricultural burning and dust storms. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during these periods and consider wearing masks. During the wet season, while overall air quality improves, vigilance regarding potential allergens is advised, particularly for those with sensitivities.