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Pemmpéréna, nestled within the Sikasso Region of Mali (coordinates 11.4222° N, -5.7469° W), occupies a geographically significant position within the Sahelian zone. The city’s terrain is predominantly undulating, characterized by gently sloping plains intersected by shallow valleys, a typical feature of the wider region’s transition from savanna to woodland. Elevation averages around 250 meters above sea level, influencing local air circulation patterns. Pemmpéréna’s location is crucial; it lies within a predominantly agricultural belt, surrounded by extensive millet and sorghum fields, interspersed with shea and mango orchards. This proximity to intensive farming practices contributes to seasonal dust emissions and potential agricultural burning, impacting air quality. The city exhibits a clear urban–rural gradient, with a dense core gradually transitioning to sparsely populated agricultural areas. While Pemmpéréna lacks immediate proximity to major rivers, it benefits from seasonal rainfall, supporting the agricultural landscape. The surrounding landscape is largely open savanna, offering limited topographical barriers to the dispersal of pollutants. The regional position, far from major industrial centers, means that long-range transport of pollutants is less of a concern than localized sources. However, the prevailing Harmattan winds, originating from the Sahara, frequently carry dust and sand, significantly impacting air quality, particularly during the dry season. The relatively flat terrain and limited vertical mixing can exacerbate the accumulation of pollutants, especially during periods of stagnant air.

Pemmpéréna’s air quality follows a distinct seasonal pattern dictated by the region’s tropical savanna climate. The dry season, spanning roughly November to May, presents the most significant air quality challenges. The Harmattan wind, a persistent dry and dusty wind blowing from the Sahara, dominates this period, carrying large quantities of mineral dust and significantly reducing visibility. This dust, composed of fine particulate matter, poses a respiratory health risk. Temperature inversions, common during the cooler nights of the dry season, trap pollutants near the ground, further worsening conditions. Agricultural burning, though regulated, can still occur as farmers prepare fields for the next planting season, releasing smoke and particulate matter. The wet season, from June to October, brings a marked improvement in air quality. Rainfall effectively washes pollutants from the atmosphere, and increased humidity helps to settle dust particles. However, periods of intense rainfall can lead to localized flooding, potentially releasing mold spores and other allergens into the air. The months of July and August, 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 Harmattan season (December-February) and avoid prolonged outdoor exposure. During the pre-planting season (March-April), increased agricultural burning may necessitate temporary restrictions on outdoor activities. The transition months (May and October) can be unpredictable, with fluctuating wind patterns and occasional dust storms.