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Soalala, a small city in the Boeny region of Madagascar, sits approximately 30km inland from the Mozambique Channel, at coordinates -16.1025, 45.3267. The terrain is largely flat, characteristic of the western coastal plains, with an elevation hovering around 20 meters above sea level. This low-lying geography, combined with its proximity to the ocean, influences local weather patterns and, consequently, air quality. Soalala is surrounded by a mosaic of agricultural land, primarily focused on rice cultivation and increasingly, vanilla production, alongside areas of dry deciduous forest. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; the city itself is a relatively concentrated settlement, quickly giving way to agricultural fields and then natural vegetation. While not a major industrial hub, Soalala serves as a regional market centre, leading to increased vehicular traffic and localized dust from unpaved roads. The prevailing winds, generally from the southeast during the dry season, can carry dust and agricultural particulate matter into the city. The lack of significant topographical features to disperse pollutants means that emissions tend to concentrate, particularly during calm weather conditions. The coastal influence brings humidity, which can react with pollutants to form secondary aerosols, impacting visibility and respiratory health. The city’s position within a tropical climate also means that temperature inversions, though not as pronounced as in temperate zones, can trap pollutants near ground level.

Soalala experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing its air quality. The dry season, from April to October, is typically characterized by lower rainfall and stronger southeasterly winds. This period sees a peak in dust and particulate matter, originating from agricultural activities – land preparation, harvesting, and transportation – and unpaved roads. The winds, while providing some dispersion, can also carry dust plumes from further inland. November to March marks the wet season, bringing relief from dust but introducing new challenges. Increased humidity fosters mold growth, potentially exacerbating respiratory issues. While rainfall washes away some particulate matter, it also creates muddy conditions, increasing vehicle emissions as they struggle on the roads. Temperature inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air below, are more frequent during the transition periods between seasons, leading to localized pollutant build-up. February and March, towards the end of the wet season, can be particularly humid and stagnant. For sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season’s peak (June-August) and the humid periods of the wet season is advisable. Monitoring local conditions and staying indoors during periods of high dust or humidity is crucial.