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Saranambana, a city of approximately 47,000 inhabitants, is nestled within the Toamasina province of Madagascar, positioned at coordinates -17.2730, 49.1696. Its location is strongly influenced by its proximity to the Indian Ocean, lying relatively close to the coastal plains east of the island. The terrain surrounding Saranambana is generally undulating, transitioning from low-lying areas near the coast to slightly higher ground inland. This topography can contribute to localised air stagnation, particularly during calmer weather conditions. The city’s urban character is typical of a growing Malagasy urban centre, with a mix of residential areas, small-scale commercial activity, and emerging industrial zones. Agriculture dominates the surrounding landscape, with rice paddies and smallholder farms prevalent. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural land quickly giving way to more densely populated areas as one approaches the city centre. The prevailing winds, influenced by the Indian Ocean monsoon systems, play a crucial role in dispersing or concentrating pollutants. The lack of significant elevation changes limits the potential for effective natural ventilation, making the city susceptible to pollutant build-up, especially from local sources like wood burning and vehicle emissions. The coastal location also introduces the possibility of salt spray impacting air quality and corrosion of infrastructure.

Saranambana experiences a tropical climate, broadly defined by a wet season (November to April) and a dry season (May to October). Air quality generally deteriorates during the dry season. Reduced rainfall means less atmospheric cleansing, allowing particulate matter from dust, construction, and agricultural activities to accumulate. The dry season also sees increased reliance on wood and charcoal for cooking and heating, contributing to higher levels of smoke and carbon monoxide. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near ground level. The wet season offers a reprieve, with frequent rainfall effectively washing pollutants from the air. However, even during the wet season, localised pollution can occur due to poor drainage and the concentration of emissions in densely populated areas. November and December often see a spike in respiratory issues as the dry season’s accumulated pollutants are stirred up by the initial rains. February and March, with consistent rainfall, are generally the most favourable months for outdoor activity. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exposure during the dry season and be mindful of peak pollution times, typically early mornings and evenings.