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Ambalatany, nestled within the Fianarantsoa Province of Madagascar, occupies a geographically significant position in the island’s central highlands. Located at approximately -22.5364° latitude and 47.5881° longitude, the town sits at an elevation that contributes to its relatively cool climate compared to coastal regions. The surrounding landscape is dominated by rolling hills and terraced rice paddies, characteristic of Madagascar’s agricultural heartland. This proximity to intensive agricultural zones, while vital for the local economy, introduces potential sources of air pollutants, particularly from burning agricultural waste and fertilizer use. The urban character of Ambalatany is distinctly rural, with a modest population of around 16,000, reflecting a primarily agrarian lifestyle. The town’s layout is relatively dispersed, with residential areas interspersed amongst agricultural fields. The urban–rural gradient is gradual, transitioning seamlessly into the surrounding countryside. While Ambalatany lacks major industrial belts, the presence of small-scale workshops and artisanal activities, often utilizing traditional methods, can contribute localized air quality concerns. The town’s location away from major rivers or lakes means humidity levels are generally lower, which can influence the dispersion of pollutants. Topographically, the surrounding hills can create localized areas of stagnant air, particularly during periods of low wind, potentially trapping pollutants and exacerbating air quality issues. The prevailing winds, generally from the east, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants depending on their direction and strength.

Ambalatany’s air quality is intrinsically linked to its tropical highland climate, exhibiting a distinct wet and dry season pattern. The dry season, typically spanning from May to October, often sees a slight improvement in air quality due to reduced humidity and increased solar radiation, which aids in the dispersion of pollutants. However, this period also witnesses increased agricultural burning as farmers clear fields for planting, leading to temporary spikes in particulate matter. The wet season, from November to April, brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity. While the rain naturally helps to cleanse the atmosphere, the increased humidity can trap pollutants closer to the ground, particularly during periods of fog or low cloud cover. Temperature inversions, though less frequent than in colder climates, can occasionally occur during the cooler months (June-August), trapping pollutants in a layer near the ground. Wind patterns are generally variable, with periods of calm conditions during which pollutants can accumulate. The months of July and August, while generally cooler, can experience stagnant air conditions, making them less favourable for outdoor activities, especially for individuals with respiratory sensitivities. During the wet season, particularly in January and February, the increased humidity can exacerbate respiratory conditions. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory illnesses, should be particularly mindful of air quality during agricultural burning periods and when humidity is high. Avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during these times is advisable, and using appropriate respiratory protection may be beneficial.