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Thakhèk, nestled in Khammouan Province, Laos, occupies a geographically significant position along the Mekong River, at coordinates 17.4000, 104.8000. The city’s terrain is characterised by rolling hills and karst landscapes, typical of central Laos, with an elevation that contributes to localised weather patterns. The Mekong acts as a crucial transportation artery and influences humidity levels, but also potentially traps pollutants during periods of atmospheric stability. Thakhèk is a regional hub, serving as a gateway to central and southern Laos, and experiencing a growing urban-rural gradient as agricultural lands surrounding the city are gradually converted for residential and commercial use. While not a major industrial centre, Thakhèk’s increasing economic activity, including limestone quarrying and cement production in the surrounding areas, contributes to particulate matter emissions. The city’s location within a valley can exacerbate air quality issues, limiting dispersion of pollutants. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with rice paddies and fruit orchards dominating the plains, and forested hills rising sharply to the east and west. This mix of land use creates a complex interplay of natural and anthropogenic emission sources, impacting local air quality.

Thakhèk experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing air quality. The dry season, roughly November to April, sees consistently lower humidity and increased dust from unpaved roads and agricultural activities. This period often brings the poorest air quality, exacerbated by temperature inversions trapping pollutants near the ground, particularly in the mornings. February and March are typically the most challenging months for respiratory health. The onset of the wet season in May brings relief, as rainfall effectively washes away particulate matter, improving air quality significantly. However, increased humidity can also promote mould growth, impacting indoor air quality. The peak of the wet season, from July to September, generally offers the cleanest air, though localised flooding can disrupt transportation and potentially release contaminants. October marks a transitional period, with decreasing rainfall and a gradual return to drier conditions. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season and consider using air filtration indoors. Monitoring wind direction is crucial, as prevailing winds can carry pollutants from nearby agricultural burning.