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Koro, nestled within the Mopti Region of Mali, occupies a geographically significant position at the edge of the Sahel, a transitional zone between the Sahara Desert and the Sudanian Savanna. Located at approximately 14.0639° latitude and -3.0753° longitude, the city’s terrain is predominantly flat, characteristic of the inland Niger Delta plain. The elevation is relatively low, averaging around 200 meters above sea level, contributing to a tendency for pollutants to accumulate, particularly during periods of atmospheric stability. Koro’s proximity to the Niger River, though not directly on its banks, influences local humidity and temperature patterns. The surrounding landscape is dominated by extensive grasslands and agricultural fields, primarily dedicated to cotton and cereal crops, which can contribute to particulate matter through agricultural practices like burning crop residue. The urban–rural gradient around Koro is gradual, with small villages and agricultural plots interspersed within the wider savanna. There are no major industrial belts immediately adjacent to Koro, but regional trade routes pass through, potentially introducing emissions from vehicles. The city’s location within the Sahel means it experiences a semi-arid climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. This climatic pattern significantly impacts air quality, influencing the dispersion of pollutants and the prevalence of dust storms. The relatively open landscape, while allowing for some dispersion, also makes the city vulnerable to transboundary dust events originating from the Sahara.

Koro’s air quality follows a predictable seasonal cycle dictated by its semi-arid climate. The dry season, typically spanning from November to April, presents the most significant air quality challenges. Characterized by minimal rainfall and consistently high temperatures, this period is prone to atmospheric inversions, where a layer of warm air traps cooler air near the ground, preventing the vertical dispersion of pollutants. Strong, dry winds frequently sweep across the Sahel during this time, carrying significant amounts of dust and sand from the Sahara Desert, dramatically increasing particulate matter concentrations. February and March are often the worst months for dust events. The wet season, from May to October, brings a relative improvement in air quality. Rainfall helps to wash pollutants from the atmosphere, and increased humidity can suppress dust lifting. However, agricultural activities, including controlled burns for land clearing and crop residue disposal, can temporarily elevate pollution levels. The monsoon winds, while bringing rain, can also carry moisture and pollutants from distant regions. Fog, though infrequent, can occur during the transition periods (May and October), trapping pollutants near the surface. Sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions, should exercise caution during the dry season, limiting outdoor activities during peak dust events and periods of stagnant air. During the wet season, while generally better, awareness of agricultural burning is advised. Maintaining indoor air quality through ventilation and air filtration can be beneficial throughout the year.