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Ambalakirajy, nestled within the Mahajanga Province of Madagascar, occupies a geographically significant position on the Mozambique Channel coastline. Located at approximately -15.7464° latitude and 48.5184° longitude, the city’s terrain is characterized by a gently sloping coastal plain, transitioning into low hills inland. This relatively flat topography, combined with its proximity to the Mozambique Channel, influences local wind patterns and humidity levels, factors that directly impact air quality. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of coastal scrubland, mangrove forests along the shoreline, and extensive rice paddies and small-scale agricultural plots extending inland. Mahajanga, a larger urban center, lies approximately 30 kilometers to the north, representing the closest significant industrial and commercial hub. This proximity means that any industrial emissions from Mahajanga can, under certain meteorological conditions, affect Ambalakirajy’s air quality. The urban–rural gradient around Ambalakirajy is gradual, with small villages and agricultural areas blending seamlessly into the town’s periphery. The prevailing winds generally blow from the east, bringing moist air from the channel, which can trap pollutants under stable atmospheric conditions. The lack of significant elevation and the relatively small size of the town limit the natural dispersion of pollutants, making the local air quality particularly sensitive to local sources like cooking fires and small-scale vehicle emissions. The region’s climate, a tropical wet-dry climate, further complicates the air quality picture, with distinct wet and dry seasons influencing pollutant concentrations.

Ambalakirajy’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by its tropical wet-dry climate. The dry season, typically spanning from May to October, presents the greatest air quality challenges. During these months, reduced rainfall and lower humidity contribute to a build-up of particulate matter, primarily from wood-fired cooking stoves, which are a common household energy source. The lack of rainfall means there’s less natural cleansing of the atmosphere. Furthermore, the drier air can exacerbate respiratory conditions. The months of July and August often experience periods of stagnant air, particularly when high-pressure systems dominate the region, leading to potential pollutant accumulation. Conversely, the wet season, from November to April, brings relief through frequent rainfall, which effectively washes pollutants from the air. Increased humidity also helps to suppress dust and particulate matter. However, heavy rainfall events can occasionally lead to localized flooding, which can release mold spores and other allergens into the air, impacting sensitive individuals. Fog, a relatively infrequent occurrence, can also trap pollutants, especially during the transitional periods between the wet and dry seasons. During the wet season, outdoor activities are generally more favorable, particularly in the afternoons after rainfall. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, minimizing exposure to smoke and dust, and considering indoor air purification strategies. The intensity of the monsoon winds also plays a role, with stronger winds dispersing pollutants more effectively.