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Brodofoumé, nestled within the Abidjan metropolitan area of Ivory Coast, occupies a geographically complex position on the Ébrié Lagoon’s edge. Located at approximately 5.5136° N, -3.9307° W, the city’s terrain is predominantly low-lying, gently sloping towards the lagoon, a characteristic of much of Abidjan’s coastal plain. This flat topography, combined with the lagoon’s presence, significantly influences local air circulation patterns. Brofodoumé sits within a region dominated by dense urban development, transitioning gradually into agricultural lands further inland. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of residential areas, small-scale markets, and pockets of informal settlements, typical of Abidjan’s rapid urban growth. The Ébrié Lagoon itself acts as a partial barrier, but also a conduit for pollutants, particularly during periods of high water flow and tidal influence. Industrial activity, concentrated in the Vridi and Attécoubé zones to the south and west respectively, contributes to regional air pollution, with prevailing winds occasionally carrying emissions towards Brofodoumé. The urban–rural gradient is relatively short, with agricultural zones – primarily cocoa and plantain farms – visible within a few kilometers, introducing biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) into the atmosphere. The city’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean introduces maritime influences, including sea salt aerosols and humidity, which can interact with pollutants. Elevation is minimal, rarely exceeding 20 meters above sea level, further limiting atmospheric dispersion and exacerbating the impact of local emissions. The lagoon’s influence creates a unique microclimate, often characterized by higher humidity and reduced wind speeds, trapping pollutants closer to the ground.

Abidjan’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly impacting Brofodoumé’s air quality. The dry season, roughly from November to March, typically sees a reduction in rainfall, leading to lower atmospheric moisture and increased solar radiation. This can exacerbate photochemical smog formation, as sunlight drives reactions between pollutants like nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds. Dust from the Harmattan winds, originating from the Sahara Desert, frequently penetrates the region during this period, adding particulate matter to the air. The wet season, from April to October, brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity. While rain helps to wash pollutants from the atmosphere, the increased humidity can also trap pollutants near the ground, particularly during periods of reduced wind. Fog, common during the transition months (March/April and September/October), significantly reduces visibility and concentrates pollutants. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air sits above cooler air near the ground, are less frequent than in temperate climates but can occur, trapping emissions and leading to localized air quality degradation. Outdoor activities are generally more favourable during the wet season, particularly after rainfall events. However, sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, especially during Harmattan dust events. Periods of stagnant air, often associated with the transition between seasons, can be particularly challenging, requiring reduced outdoor exertion and increased ventilation indoors. The interplay of these meteorological factors creates a dynamic air quality profile throughout the year, demanding adaptive strategies for public health protection.