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Maralal, the capital of Samburu County in northern Kenya, occupies a unique and challenging geographic position. Situated at approximately 1.1000° latitude and 36.7000° longitude, the town rests at an elevation of roughly 1,700 meters (5,577 feet) above sea level, placing it within the semi-arid highlands of the Kenyan Rift Valley. The surrounding landscape is dominated by expansive grasslands, acacia woodlands, and rugged hills, characteristic of the Samburu ecosystem. This terrain significantly influences local air quality. The town’s location within a relatively enclosed valley can exacerbate the effects of temperature inversions, trapping pollutants closer to the ground, particularly during cooler months. While Maralal is far removed from major industrial belts, its proximity to extensive pastoral grazing lands introduces a unique source of particulate matter – dust from livestock movement and seasonal droughts. The urban–rural gradient is sharp; Maralal itself is a small market town, transitioning rapidly into sparsely populated rangelands. The Ewaso Ng’iro River, though distant, influences regional weather patterns, contributing to occasional humidity and localized rainfall. The lack of significant vegetation cover within the immediate vicinity of the town, combined with the prevalence of unpaved roads and vehicle traffic, contributes to elevated levels of dust and exhaust emissions. The prevailing winds, often light and variable, offer limited dispersion of pollutants, further compounding air quality challenges.

Maralal’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by its tropical climate and the interplay of wet and dry seasons. The longer dry season, typically spanning from June to October, presents the most significant air quality concerns. During this period, reduced rainfall leads to parched vegetation and increased soil erosion, resulting in elevated levels of dust and particulate matter. Strong, localized winds, often associated with the Harmattan winds blowing from the Sahara, can exacerbate dust storms, significantly degrading air quality. Temperature inversions are more frequent during the cooler nights of the dry season, trapping pollutants near the ground. The short rainy season, from November to December, brings a temporary respite as rainfall washes away accumulated dust and increases humidity, improving air quality. However, the rains can also lead to muddy conditions and increased vehicle emissions due to slower traffic. The transitional months of January to May see a gradual increase in dust levels as the land dries out. Fog, though infrequent, can occur during the cooler mornings, trapping pollutants and reducing visibility. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of high dust activity. Outdoor activities are generally more favourable during the rainy season and the transitional months, but vigilance regarding vehicle emissions remains important. The intensity of the Harmattan winds and the severity of the dry season’s drought conditions are key determinants of air quality throughout the year.