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Kiranomena, nestled within the Antananarivo province of Madagascar, occupies a unique and challenging geographic position. Located at approximately -18.2955° latitude and 46.0521° longitude, the city sits on the slopes of the Andranomaditra plateau, a region characterized by undulating terrain and significant elevation changes. This location, just outside the capital city Antananarivo, places Kiranomena within a transitional zone between the densely populated urban core and the surrounding agricultural highlands. The landscape is dominated by terraced rice paddies and small-scale farms, a vital agricultural belt supplying the city with food. Surrounding Kiranomena are remnants of the eastern rainforest, though increasingly fragmented due to deforestation. The city’s proximity to the Betsimaharana River, though not directly adjacent, influences local microclimates and humidity levels. The urban–rural gradient is relatively sharp; Kiranomena exhibits a mix of traditional Malagasy housing and more modern constructions, reflecting its role as a commuter town for Antananarivo. The plateau’s topography significantly impacts air circulation. Valleys can trap pollutants, while higher elevations experience greater dispersion. Prevailing winds, often influenced by the Indian Ocean monsoon system, play a crucial role in transporting pollutants from Antananarivo and surrounding industrial areas. The limited flat land and steep slopes also constrain urban planning and contribute to localized pollution hotspots due to traffic congestion on the winding roads. Deforestation in the surrounding hills further exacerbates the issue by reducing natural air filtration.

Kiranomena’s air quality is intrinsically linked to Madagascar’s distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, typically spanning from May to October, often sees a gradual increase in particulate matter concentrations. Reduced rainfall means less natural cleansing of the atmosphere, and the persistent sunshine encourages outdoor burning for land clearing and cooking, contributing to smoke pollution. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants close to the ground, particularly in the valley areas surrounding Kiranomena. The dry winds from the south can also carry dust and pollutants from agricultural fields and construction sites. Conversely, the wet season (November to April) brings relief through frequent rainfall, which effectively washes pollutants from the air. However, periods of intense fog, common during the transition months, can temporarily reduce visibility and trap moisture-borne pollutants. The monsoon winds, shifting direction during this period, help disperse pollutants, although heavy downpours can also lead to increased runoff carrying pollutants into waterways. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, particularly during periods of consistent rainfall. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, especially during periods of haze or smoke. Local authorities often advise limiting strenuous outdoor activity and wearing masks when air quality is visibly impacted. The agricultural practices prevalent in the surrounding areas, such as slash-and-burn techniques, can significantly impact air quality, particularly during the transition periods between seasons.