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Bevontrara, nestled within the Antsiranana Province of Madagascar, occupies a unique geographic position on the northeastern coast. Situated at approximately -14.0730 latitude and 49.6093 longitude, the city’s location is profoundly shaped by its proximity to the Indian Ocean and the surrounding mountainous terrain. The landscape is characterized by a gradual urban–rural gradient, transitioning from the built environment of Bevonotra to the lush, tropical forests and agricultural lands that dominate the region. The city itself is relatively low-lying, situated on a coastal plain, which influences local wind patterns and potential for sea breezes. To the west, the landscape rises sharply into the Sambirano massif, a range of hills and mountains that can trap pollutants under certain meteorological conditions, particularly during periods of temperature inversion. The surrounding area is predominantly agricultural, with significant cultivation of vanilla, cloves, and coffee, although the scale of industrial activity is limited. The coastal location means the city experiences a maritime climate, with high humidity and frequent rainfall. The Sambirano River, a vital water source, flows nearby, influencing local microclimates. The terrain’s undulating nature, combined with the coastal winds, generally promotes some degree of air mixing, but localized valleys and depressions can experience poorer air quality. The relatively small population of 16,000 suggests a primarily rural character with limited concentrated industrial emissions, though agricultural practices and biomass burning for cooking could contribute to localized pollution.

Bevontrara’s air quality is dictated by its tropical climate, exhibiting a distinct wet and dry season pattern rather than the four traditional seasons. The dry season, typically spanning from May to October, often sees a slight increase in particulate matter. This is largely attributable to agricultural practices – controlled burns for land clearing and crop residue management become more prevalent during this period, releasing smoke and soot into the atmosphere. While coastal breezes generally disperse pollutants, periods of calm weather and temperature inversions, more common during the drier months, can trap these emissions, leading to localized poor air quality. The wet season, from November to April, brings frequent rainfall and increased humidity, which naturally washes pollutants from the air, resulting in improved air quality. However, heavy rainfall can also lead to increased dampness and mold growth, impacting indoor air quality. Fog, a characteristic feature of the Sambirano region, is more frequent during the transition months (April/May and October/November), and can trap pollutants close to the ground, reducing visibility and potentially exacerbating respiratory issues. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly during periods of agricultural burning. Outdoor activities are generally more favorable during the wet season, although vigilance regarding dampness and mold is advised. The interplay of wind patterns, rainfall, and agricultural practices creates a dynamic air quality profile throughout the year, requiring adaptive strategies for public health.