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Kelo, situated in the Tandjilé region of Chad, occupies a geographically challenging position within the Sahelian zone. Located at approximately 9.31°N latitude and 15.81°E longitude, the city rests on relatively flat terrain, typical of the southern Chad Basin, at an elevation of around 580 meters. This places Kelo within a transitional climate zone, experiencing both semi-arid and tropical influences. The surrounding landscape is predominantly savannah grassland, interspersed with acacia trees and shrubland, gradually transitioning to more arid conditions further north. Kelo’s air quality is significantly influenced by its location downwind of larger dust sources in the Sahara Desert, particularly during the Harmattan winds. The city isn’t near major industrial belts, but agricultural activity – primarily subsistence farming and livestock rearing – contributes to localized particulate matter from land clearing and animal husbandry. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; Kelo is a regional centre, but surrounding areas are sparsely populated. The lack of significant vegetation cover exacerbates dust resuspension, and the limited infrastructure for waste management can lead to localised burning, further degrading air quality. Proximity to Lake Chad, while not immediate, influences regional humidity and wind patterns, occasionally bringing relief from dust but also contributing to potential fungal spore dispersal.

Kelo experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, spanning roughly November to May, is characterised by consistently poor air quality. The Harmattan winds, originating from the Sahara, dominate this period, carrying vast quantities of dust and sand southward, significantly increasing particulate matter concentrations. January to March are typically the worst months, with reduced visibility and heightened respiratory irritation. Temperature inversions, common during cooler nights within the dry season, trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the issue. The onset of the wet season in June brings a temporary improvement. Rainfall washes away accumulated dust, and increased humidity suppresses dust resuspension. However, this relief is often short-lived. Increased agricultural activity during the wet season (June-September) leads to localised burning of vegetation for land preparation, releasing smoke and particulate matter. October sees a transition period, with decreasing rainfall and increasing dust levels. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly January-March, and take precautions during periods of agricultural burning. Wearing masks and keeping windows closed during dust storms are crucial protective measures.