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Anahidrano, nestled within the Mahajanga province of Madagascar, occupies a geographically unique position along the Mozambique Channel. Located at approximately -15.0162° latitude and 47.8912° 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 Indian Ocean, significantly influences local air quality patterns. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of coastal scrubland, mangrove forests fringing the shoreline, and extensive agricultural zones dedicated primarily to vanilla, coffee, and clove cultivation. These agricultural practices, while vital to the regional 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 Anahidrano is gradual, with small villages and agricultural plots interspersed throughout the landscape. Mahajanga, a larger urban center, lies approximately 15 kilometers to the north, and any industrial activity or emissions originating there can be transported to Anahidrano via prevailing winds. The elevation is low, rarely exceeding 30 meters above sea level, which limits atmospheric dispersion and can exacerbate the impact of pollutants. The Mozambique Channel’s influence brings humidity and occasional sea breezes, which can sometimes dilute pollutants, but also contribute to the formation of coastal fogs, trapping particulate matter close to the ground. The city’s location within a tropical climate zone further complicates air quality dynamics, with seasonal variations in rainfall and temperature impacting pollutant behavior.

Anahidrano’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting its air quality. The dry season, typically spanning from May to October, often witnesses a noticeable increase in particulate matter. This is largely attributable to agricultural practices; farmers frequently employ controlled burns to clear land for planting, releasing significant quantities of smoke and ash into the atmosphere. Reduced rainfall during this period also limits the natural cleansing effect of precipitation, allowing pollutants to persist. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near the ground, further degrading air quality. The wet season, from November to April, brings frequent rainfall and higher humidity, which generally improves air quality by washing away particulate matter and diluting gaseous pollutants. However, periods of intense rainfall can also lead to flooding, potentially releasing mold spores and other allergens into the air. The monsoon winds, shifting direction seasonally, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants. During the dry season, prevailing winds often originate from inland agricultural areas, carrying smoke and dust. The months of July and August are generally considered the most challenging for air quality due to the combination of agricultural burning and temperature inversions. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during these periods and consider using face masks. The increased humidity during the wet season can exacerbate allergies for some individuals, requiring careful monitoring and appropriate medication.