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Sahambala, a small urban centre within the Toamasina region of Madagascar, presents a unique geographic context influencing its air quality. Situated at approximately -17.9199 latitude and 49.1574 longitude, the city lies relatively close to the Indian Ocean, approximately 25km inland. The terrain is gently undulating, characteristic of the eastern coastal plains of Madagascar, transitioning from low-lying areas towards slightly higher ground further west. This proximity to the ocean introduces a consistent, humid air mass, but also potential for salt spray and marine aerosols. Sahambala’s surrounding landscape is dominated by agricultural zones, primarily small-scale farming of rice, vanilla, and cloves, alongside patches of remnant rainforest. While not a major industrial hub, the Toamasina region as a whole supports some light industrial activity related to agricultural processing and port operations. The urban-rural gradient is quite sharp; Sahambala itself is a compact settlement, quickly giving way to rural farmland. This means localised pollution sources – wood burning for cooking, vehicle emissions, and agricultural practices – have a relatively limited area for dispersion, potentially leading to concentrated pockets of poor air quality, particularly during calm weather conditions. The prevailing winds, generally from the east-southeast, play a crucial role in pollutant transport, but can be disrupted by local topography.

Sahambala experiences a tropical monsoon climate, dictating a distinct wet and dry season rather than traditional four seasons. Air quality generally improves during the wet season (November to April) due to increased rainfall which effectively washes particulate matter from the atmosphere. However, high humidity can also exacerbate the feeling of stuffiness and promote mould growth indoors. The dry season (May to October) consistently presents the poorest air quality. This is driven by increased dust from agricultural activities, more frequent use of wood and charcoal for cooking as crops are harvested and dried, and a greater concentration of pollutants due to reduced atmospheric mixing. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler, drier months of July and August, trap pollutants near ground level. The *tsiry* winds, strong easterly winds that can occur during the transition periods, can temporarily disperse pollutants, but also carry dust from inland areas. Sensitive individuals – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the dry season, particularly in the late afternoon when pollutant concentrations are often highest. Monitoring local weather patterns and avoiding peak agricultural burning times are advisable.