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Antsohihy, nestled within the Mahajanga region of Madagascar, occupies a unique geographic position in the northwest of the island. Situated at approximately -14.8661 latitude and 47.9834 longitude, the city is characterized by a gently undulating terrain, transitioning from coastal plains inland towards the Tsarazaza Massif. This topography influences local wind patterns and the dispersion of pollutants. The Sambirano River, a vital waterway for agriculture, flows nearby, contributing to humidity levels and potentially trapping pollutants during temperature inversions. Antsohihy serves as a crucial market town for the surrounding agricultural heartland, particularly vanilla, coffee, and cocoa plantations. This agricultural activity, while economically important, introduces potential sources of particulate matter from land preparation, harvesting, and processing. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with a noticeable increase in dust and smoke within the city center due to wood-burning stoves for cooking and limited paved road surfaces. The surrounding landscape is dominated by lush vegetation, but deforestation for agriculture poses a growing concern, impacting air quality through increased erosion and reduced carbon sequestration. The city’s elevation, relatively low-lying, doesn’t provide significant atmospheric mixing, potentially exacerbating localized pollution events. The proximity to the Mozambique Channel also introduces salt spray, which can react with pollutants to form secondary aerosols.

Antsohihy experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing its air quality. The wet season, generally from November to April, brings relief from dust and smoke as rainfall effectively washes particulate matter from the atmosphere. However, increased humidity can also promote the formation of mold and mildew, impacting respiratory health. The months of January and February typically see the highest rainfall, offering the cleanest air. Conversely, the dry season, from May to October, witnesses a significant deterioration in air quality. Agricultural burning to clear land for the next planting season peaks during this period, releasing substantial amounts of smoke and particulate matter. July and August are particularly challenging months. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler dry season nights, trap pollutants near ground level, exacerbating the problem. Wind patterns are generally weaker during the dry season, limiting pollutant dispersion. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, should limit outdoor activity during peak burning periods. The transition months of November and April can be unpredictable, with fluctuating air quality. Monitoring local conditions and avoiding strenuous activity on hazy days is advisable. Fog can also occur during the cooler months, trapping pollutants and reducing visibility.