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Thomazeau, nestled within the Ouest department of Haiti at coordinates 18.6530, -72.0939, occupies a geographically complex position. The city is situated on a plateau, part of the northern foothills of the Massif de la Selle, a mountainous spine running down Haiti’s southern peninsula. This elevation, approximately 400-600 meters above sea level, influences local wind patterns and can contribute to temperature inversions, trapping pollutants. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of smallholder agriculture – primarily coffee, fruits, and subsistence crops – interspersed with patches of remnant forest. Thomazeau isn’t directly on the coast, but is roughly 20km inland from the Gulf of Gonâve, meaning maritime influences, including humidity and occasional sea breezes, are present. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; the city centre is densely populated, transitioning rapidly to agricultural land. While Thomazeau lacks heavy industry, the prevalence of charcoal production for cooking, a common practice throughout Haiti, is a significant localised source of particulate matter. Dust from unpaved roads and agricultural activities also contribute to baseline particulate levels. The terrain’s susceptibility to landslides, exacerbated by deforestation, can further worsen air quality following heavy rainfall events, releasing soil and debris into the air.

Thomazeau experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, typically from December to April, sees lower rainfall and increased dust resuspension from agricultural lands and unpaved roads, leading to elevated particulate matter concentrations. This is often worsened by the widespread burning of vegetation for land clearing. February and March are generally the months with the poorest air quality. The onset of the wet season in May brings temporary relief as rainfall washes away pollutants, but also increases humidity, potentially fostering mold growth indoors. The peak of the rainy season, June to November, sees the highest levels of humidity and can lead to localised flooding, which stirs up sediment and organic matter, impacting air quality. While rainfall cleanses the air, stagnant conditions following heavy downpours can trap pollutants. October and November often experience increased respiratory issues due to these conditions. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season and periods following heavy rainfall. Maintaining good indoor ventilation is crucial year-round.