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Pèlèngana, situated in the Ségou Region of Mali at coordinates 13.4275, -6.2219, is a city deeply interwoven with the Niger River’s influence. The terrain is largely flat, characteristic of the Inner Niger Delta, a floodplain that dominates the region. This flatness contributes to limited natural air dispersion. Pèlèngana’s elevation is relatively low, further reducing the potential for atmospheric flushing. The city’s urban character is defined by a blend of traditional mud-brick architecture and increasingly modern construction, reflecting its growth as a regional trading hub. Surrounding Pèlèngana are extensive agricultural lands, primarily focused on rice cultivation, which, while vital for the local economy, introduces seasonal biomass burning for land preparation and post-harvest residue removal. This practice is a significant contributor to particulate matter pollution. The urban-rural gradient is relatively sharp, with agricultural activity immediately bordering the city limits. The Niger River itself, while a source of life, can also contribute to localised humidity and potential for stagnant air conditions, especially during the wet season. Dust from the Sahara Desert, carried by Harmattan winds, frequently impacts the region, exacerbating particulate matter levels. The lack of substantial industrial belts within Pèlèngana itself means that the primary pollution sources are largely diffuse and linked to domestic fuel use and agricultural practices.

Pèlèngana experiences a pronounced wet and dry season cycle, heavily influencing air quality. The dry season, roughly November to May, is when air quality is typically poorest. Harmattan winds bring substantial Saharan dust, increasing particulate matter concentrations. This is compounded by widespread biomass burning for agricultural purposes, particularly in December and January as farmers prepare fields for the next planting season. Temperature inversions are common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trapping pollutants near ground level. The wet season, from June to October, offers a temporary respite. Rainfall effectively washes particulate matter from the atmosphere, and increased humidity suppresses dust resuspension. However, the wet season also brings challenges. Increased cloud cover can exacerbate temperature inversions, and stagnant air masses can lead to localised build-up of pollutants from domestic cooking and waste burning. August and September, during peak rainfall, generally offer the best air quality. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor exposure during the dry season, particularly in December and January. Wearing masks can provide some protection. During the wet season, while overall air quality improves, be mindful of potential mould growth indoors due to increased humidity.