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Nalerigu, nestled in Ghana’s North East Region, occupies a geographically significant position within the broader Voltaian Plateau. Located at approximately 10.53°N latitude and -0.37°W longitude, the town sits at an elevation of roughly 230 meters (750 feet) above sea level, contributing to a generally cooler climate compared to coastal regions. The surrounding landscape is characterized by undulating grasslands and sparse savanna woodland, typical of the Guinea Savanna zone. This terrain influences local wind patterns, often channeling breezes through the town, which can both disperse and concentrate pollutants depending on atmospheric stability. Nalerigu’s proximity to agricultural lands—primarily maize, millet, and sorghum farms—means that agricultural practices, including burning of crop residue after harvest, can be a source of particulate matter. While not directly adjacent to major rivers, the Nakpayili River flows nearby, influencing local humidity and potentially affecting the deposition of airborne pollutants. The urban–rural gradient around Nalerigu is relatively sharp; the town itself is a modest settlement, transitioning quickly to rural agricultural areas. There are no significant industrial belts immediately surrounding Nalerigu, minimizing industrial emissions. However, the town serves as a regional market center, with vehicular traffic from surrounding villages contributing to localized air pollution, particularly during peak market days. The relatively open terrain allows for some dispersion, but stagnant air conditions, particularly during the dry season, can lead to pollutant accumulation.

Nalerigu experiences a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly impacting its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from November to April, presents the greatest air quality challenges. Reduced rainfall leads to lower atmospheric moisture, promoting the formation of temperature inversions – layers of warm air trapping cooler air near the ground. This inversion layer inhibits vertical mixing, causing pollutants to accumulate. Agricultural burning, a common practice for land preparation, intensifies during this period, releasing significant amounts of smoke and particulate matter. Dust storms, driven by the Harmattan winds, are also frequent, further degrading air quality. The months of January and February are generally the most challenging for outdoor activity. Conversely, the wet season (May to October) brings relief. Frequent rainfall effectively ‘washes’ pollutants from the atmosphere, and increased humidity helps to suppress dust. Wind speeds also tend to be higher during the wet season, facilitating pollutant dispersion. While rainfall can temporarily improve air quality, heavy downpours can occasionally stir up mud and soil, leading to short-term increases in particulate matter. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure and avoiding areas with visible smoke. During the wet season, while generally better, periods of intense rainfall and subsequent muddy conditions warrant similar precautions.