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Mantaly, nestled within the Antsiranana Province of Madagascar, occupies a unique and geographically sensitive position. Located at approximately -13.1662 latitude and 48.9647 longitude, the city’s setting is dominated by the dramatic coastal landscape of the Mozambique Channel. The terrain is characterized by a blend of rolling hills and a relatively steep descent towards the coastline, influencing local wind patterns and potential for pollutant accumulation. Mantaly’s proximity to the Indian Ocean moderates temperatures, but also introduces maritime influences on air quality, including salt spray and potential for sea fog. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of dense tropical rainforest, interspersed with small-scale agricultural plots – primarily vanilla, coffee, and cloves – and pockets of savannah. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to localized air pollution through the burning of vegetation during land clearing and the use of fertilizers. The urban–rural gradient around Mantaly is gradual, with small villages and agricultural areas blending seamlessly into the city’s periphery. There are no major industrial belts immediately adjacent to Mantaly; however, the port of Antsiranana, a significant regional hub for trade and fishing, lies approximately 100km to the north, and its activities can occasionally impact air quality through shipping emissions and processing operations. The elevation of Mantaly, though modest, contributes to localized microclimates and can influence the dispersion of pollutants, particularly during periods of temperature inversion.

Mantaly’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting its air quality profile. The wet season, typically spanning November to April, brings frequent rainfall and high humidity. While the rain naturally helps to cleanse the atmosphere by removing particulate matter, the increased humidity can exacerbate respiratory issues for sensitive individuals. The frequent cloud cover reduces solar radiation, potentially impacting photochemical smog formation, a common issue in many urban areas. Conversely, the dry season (May to October) presents a different set of challenges. Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, and the drier air allows dust and particulate matter from agricultural activities and unpaved roads to become more readily airborne. During this period, stagnant air conditions, particularly during the cooler months of July and August, can lead to localized pollutant build-up. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, are more common during the dry season, further hindering pollutant dispersion. The prevailing trade winds, generally blowing from the east, play a crucial role in ventilating the area, but their strength can vary considerably. Outdoor activities are generally more favourable during the wet season, although those with respiratory sensitivities should remain cautious due to humidity. During the dry season, limiting strenuous outdoor activity during midday and wearing appropriate masks when dust is prevalent is advisable, especially for children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions.