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Markala, situated in the Ségou Region of Mali, occupies a crucial position along the Niger River, at approximately 13.6739°N latitude and 6.0750°W longitude. The city’s geography is defined by its location within the Inland Niger Delta, a floodplain characterized by fertile soils and a relatively flat terrain. Elevation is modest, generally below 200 meters, contributing to limited natural dispersion of pollutants. Markala serves as a vital agricultural hub, particularly for irrigated rice cultivation, and a key market centre for the surrounding rural communities. This agricultural intensity, while economically important, introduces potential sources of air pollution from dust during land preparation, fertilizer application, and post-harvest burning of rice straw. The urban-rural gradient is pronounced; the city itself is compact, but quickly transitions to agricultural land and savannah woodland. The Niger River, while providing a water source, can also contribute to localized humidity and potential for temperature inversions, trapping pollutants near the ground. The surrounding landscape is predominantly savannah, prone to seasonal dust storms originating from the Sahara Desert, significantly impacting air quality. The lack of substantial industrial belts within Markala itself means that the primary pollution sources are largely agricultural and domestic, compounded by vehicle emissions and dust from unpaved roads.

Markala experiences a distinct wet and dry season, heavily influencing air quality. The dry season, roughly November to May, is characterized by the Harmattan wind, bringing substantial Saharan dust southward. This period sees the poorest air quality, with visibility often reduced and respiratory irritation common. January and February are typically the most challenging months. The hot, dry conditions also promote the suspension of local dust from agricultural activities and unpaved roads. The transition to the wet season, June to July, brings a temporary improvement as rainfall suppresses dust. However, increased humidity can also lead to the formation of mould spores, impacting sensitive individuals. The peak of the wet season, August to October, generally offers the best air quality due to rainfall cleansing the atmosphere. However, localized flooding can exacerbate mould growth and create stagnant water, potentially breeding mosquitoes and contributing to biological pollutants. Temperature inversions, common during cooler nights in the dry season, trap pollutants near ground level. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the Harmattan season and periods of high dust concentration. Monitoring local weather patterns is crucial for anticipating pollution episodes.