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Androy, nestled within the Fianarantsoa Province of Madagascar, occupies a geographically complex and ecologically significant region. Situated at coordinates -21.3350, 47.2719, the city’s location is characterized by a gradual transition from the highland plateau towards the drier, more arid southern landscapes of Madagascar. The surrounding terrain is a mosaic of rolling hills, interspersed with pockets of dense spiny forest, a unique biome adapted to the region’s limited rainfall. Androy’s elevation, while not exceptionally high, contributes to localized microclimates and influences air circulation patterns. The city’s proximity to the Manambolo River, though not directly adjacent, provides a crucial water source and influences humidity levels, particularly during the wet season. The urban fabric of Androy is relatively small, reflecting its modest population of 15,938. The urban–rural gradient is pronounced; the city is immediately surrounded by agricultural lands, primarily focused on cassava, maize, and rice cultivation, alongside small-scale livestock rearing. Further afield, the landscape shifts to extensive grasslands and the aforementioned spiny forest. There are no major industrial belts immediately surrounding Androy; however, the region’s reliance on traditional charcoal production for cooking and heating, coupled with limited access to cleaner energy sources, represents a significant factor impacting local air quality. The prevailing winds, often originating from the east, carry moisture and influence the dispersal of pollutants, while the topography can trap emissions in certain areas, creating localized air quality challenges. The surrounding landscape’s vulnerability to deforestation further exacerbates these issues.

Androy’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season cycle, profoundly impacting its air quality. The wet season, typically spanning from November to April, brings increased rainfall and higher humidity. While the rain itself can help cleanse the atmosphere by removing particulate matter, the increased biomass burning associated with agricultural practices during this period often leads to elevated levels of smoke and associated pollutants. The humidity can also trap pollutants closer to the ground, particularly during periods of reduced wind. Conversely, the dry season (May to October) is characterized by lower rainfall and increased temperatures. This often results in stagnant air conditions, especially during the cooler mornings, which can promote temperature inversions. These inversions trap pollutants near the surface, leading to a build-up of emissions from residential cooking and agricultural activities. The months of July and August frequently experience periods of fog, further exacerbating this issue by limiting atmospheric mixing. During the dry season, dust storms, though less frequent than in more arid regions, can also contribute to particulate matter pollution. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, particularly in the mornings. During the wet season, while overall air quality may be temporarily improved, the smoke from agricultural burning poses a significant risk. Outdoor activities are generally more favourable during the transitional months of May and October, when rainfall is moderate and temperatures are less extreme, offering a balance between atmospheric cleansing and reduced pollutant build-up.