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Andondabe, nestled within the Toamasina Province of Madagascar, occupies a geographically significant position along the eastern coast. Located at approximately -17.7665 latitude and 49.3793 longitude, the town’s immediate surroundings are characterized by a blend of coastal plains and gently undulating terrain, rising gradually inland. The proximity to the Indian Ocean exerts a powerful influence on the local climate and, consequently, air quality. To the east lies the expansive ocean, providing a potential pathway for marine aerosols and influencing prevailing wind patterns. Westward, the landscape transitions into a mosaic of agricultural lands, primarily focused on clove, vanilla, and rice cultivation – key components of Madagascar’s economy. This agricultural belt introduces potential sources of particulate matter, particularly during harvesting and processing seasons. The urban–rural gradient around Andondabe is relatively gradual, with small villages and agricultural plots interspersed within a few kilometers of the town center. Elevation is relatively low, rarely exceeding 50 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate temperature inversions and trap pollutants close to the ground. The town’s location within a humid tropical climate zone means high levels of moisture are common, which can both scavenge pollutants and contribute to fog formation, impacting visibility and potentially trapping emissions. The lack of major industrial zones directly adjacent to Andondabe mitigates some pollution risks, but transportation-related emissions and agricultural practices remain key factors shaping the local air quality profile.

Andondabe’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly influencing air quality throughout the year. The wet season, typically spanning from November to April, brings frequent rainfall and high humidity. While the rain effectively ‘washes’ pollutants from the atmosphere, reducing particulate matter concentrations, the increased humidity can also contribute to the formation of ground-level ozone under specific conditions. The dry season, from May to October, is characterized by lower rainfall and increased sunshine, often accompanied by periods of relative calm. This can lead to temperature inversions, where cooler air becomes trapped beneath a layer of warmer air, preventing vertical mixing and concentrating pollutants near the surface. Agricultural burning, a common practice for land clearing and crop residue disposal, is most prevalent during the transition months (September/October), significantly elevating particulate matter levels. Fog, a frequent occurrence during the cooler months (June-August), further exacerbates this issue by trapping pollutants. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during these periods, limiting strenuous outdoor activity and monitoring for any respiratory discomfort. The months of September and October, coinciding with peak agricultural burning, are generally the least favourable for outdoor pursuits. Conversely, the wetter months (March-May) typically offer the best air quality, although humidity can still be a factor for some individuals. Consistent monitoring of local weather patterns and agricultural practices is crucial for anticipating and mitigating air quality risks.