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Vohilengo, nestled within the Toamasina Province of Madagascar, occupies a geographically significant position along the eastern coast. Located at approximately -17.3000 latitude and 49.4167 longitude, the town’s setting is characterized by a gently sloping terrain transitioning from the coastal plains towards the interior highlands. The proximity to the Indian Ocean exerts a powerful influence on the local climate and, consequently, air quality. Vohilengo is situated relatively close to Toamasina (Tamatave), Madagascar’s primary port city, which introduces potential for industrial emissions impacting air quality, though the distance mitigates direct, severe effects. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of coastal forests, small-scale agriculture (primarily vanilla, cloves, and rice cultivation), and interspersed villages. This agricultural activity, while vital to the local economy, can contribute to localized particulate matter, particularly during harvesting and processing seasons. The urban–rural gradient around Vohilengo is gradual; the town itself is a relatively small settlement, blending seamlessly into the agricultural landscape. Elevation is low, rarely exceeding 30 meters above sea level, which can exacerbate temperature inversions, trapping pollutants closer to the ground. The prevailing easterly trade winds, typical of the region, generally provide some degree of ventilation, but their effectiveness is variable and can be disrupted by local weather patterns. The coastal location also means the town is susceptible to sea breezes, which can transport marine aerosols and influence humidity levels, impacting the dispersion of pollutants.

Vohilengo’s tropical climate dictates a distinct wet and dry season pattern, profoundly influencing air quality throughout the year. The wet season, typically spanning November to April, brings frequent rainfall and high humidity. While the rain naturally helps to cleanse the atmosphere by removing particulate matter, the increased humidity can trap gaseous pollutants, particularly those related to biomass burning. Agricultural practices, including slash-and-burn techniques for land clearing (though increasingly regulated), contribute to smoke and particulate pollution during this period, especially in November and December. The dry season, from May to October, is characterized by lower rainfall and generally clearer skies. However, this period often sees a build-up of pollutants due to reduced precipitation and potentially stagnant air conditions. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of June and July, can trap pollutants near the ground, leading to localized episodes of poorer air quality. Sea breezes, while usually beneficial for ventilation, can sometimes become weak or reverse, further hindering pollutant dispersal. During the transition months (April/May and October/November), unpredictable weather patterns can lead to fluctuating air quality. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during periods of biomass burning and potential temperature inversions, limiting outdoor exertion and seeking shelter when necessary. The months of July and August, while generally drier, can experience periods of stagnant air, warranting similar precautions. Overall, maintaining awareness of local weather conditions and agricultural practices is crucial for managing potential air quality impacts.