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Ankiabe-Salohy, nestled within the Boeny region of Madagascar, presents a unique geographic context influencing its air quality. Situated approximately 20km inland from the Mozambique Channel near Mahajanga, the city lies at a low elevation, generally under 100 meters, contributing to limited atmospheric dispersion. The surrounding landscape is characterised by a coastal plain transitioning into inland plateaus, with a mix of mangrove forests along the coast and savanna grasslands further inland. This proximity to the ocean introduces significant humidity and salt spray, potentially impacting particulate matter composition. While not a major industrial hub, Ankiabe-Salohy serves as a regional market town, experiencing increased traffic from agricultural transport – rice paddies and small-scale farming dominate the surrounding areas. Slash-and-burn agriculture, a common practice, is a significant localised source of smoke, particularly during land preparation. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp; the city itself is compact, but quickly gives way to rural landscapes. Dust from unpaved roads and construction, coupled with biomass burning for cooking and heating, are key local pollution contributors. The prevailing winds, influenced by the southeast trade winds, play a crucial role in pollutant transport and dispersion, though topographic features can create localised stagnation zones.

Ankiabe-Salohy experiences a distinct wet and dry season, profoundly impacting air quality. The dry season, roughly from May to October, is characterised by lower humidity and stronger winds, initially offering some dispersion. However, this period also coincides with increased agricultural burning for land preparation and harvesting, leading to peaks in particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and smoke. November marks the transition, with sporadic rainfall and a build-up of humidity. The wet season, from November to April, generally brings improved air quality due to rainfall scavenging pollutants from the atmosphere. However, increased humidity can also foster mould growth, impacting respiratory health. January and February, the peak of the wet season, are typically the most favourable months for outdoor activity. Temperature inversions, though less frequent than in temperate climates, can occur during calmer periods, trapping pollutants near the ground. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exposure during the dry season, particularly when smoke is visible. Monitoring wind direction is crucial; pollutants often accumulate in areas sheltered from the prevailing southeast trade winds. Fog, common during the transition periods, can exacerbate particulate matter concentrations.