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Kouri, nestled within the Sikasso Region of Mali (coordinates 12.1833° N, -4.8031° W), occupies a geographically significant position within the Sahelian zone. The town’s location, at an elevation of approximately 280 meters above sea level, places it on a gently undulating plateau, part of the larger Bani Plateau. This plateau is characterized by loessial soils, a legacy of ancient wind-blown deposits, which contribute to the region’s agricultural productivity. Kouri is surrounded by a predominantly rural landscape of savannah grasslands and cultivated fields, primarily dedicated to cotton, sorghum, and maize farming – a crucial element of the local economy. The Bani River, though not immediately adjacent, influences the regional climate and water availability, impacting agricultural practices and, indirectly, dust emissions from cultivated lands. The urban–rural gradient around Kouri is relatively sharp; the town represents a localized concentration of population and services within an otherwise expansive agricultural area. There are no major industrial belts directly bordering Kouri, though smaller-scale processing activities related to agriculture are present. The prevailing winds, generally from the north during the dry season, can transport dust and particulate matter from the broader Sahelian region, impacting local air quality. The relatively flat terrain, combined with the prevalence of agricultural activities and occasional bushfires during the dry season, creates conditions conducive to localized air pollution events, particularly concerning particulate matter. The surrounding landscape, largely open and agricultural, limits natural air filtration and dispersal.

Kouri’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s tropical savanna climate, characterized by a pronounced wet and dry season. The dry season, typically spanning from November to April, presents the greatest air quality challenges. During these months, reduced rainfall and increased wind speeds, often originating from the Sahara Desert, contribute to elevated levels of dust and particulate matter. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, can trap pollutants near the ground, exacerbating the situation. Agricultural burning, a traditional practice for land clearing and residue disposal, also significantly contributes to air pollution during this period, particularly in March and April. The onset of the wet season (May to October) brings a marked improvement in air quality. Rainfall effectively washes particulate matter from the atmosphere, and increased humidity reduces dust generation. However, periods of intense rainfall can lead to localized flooding, potentially releasing pollutants from stagnant water sources. The monsoon winds, shifting direction during the wet season, help disperse any remaining pollutants. The months of June and July, coinciding with the peak of the rainy season, generally offer the best air quality. 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 avoiding areas with agricultural burning. Maintaining indoor air quality through proper ventilation and filtration is also recommended during this period. The transition months of May and October can be unpredictable, with fluctuating air quality depending on rainfall patterns and wind conditions.